THE KIDS KICKS MISSION!

Founded by Charles Friedrich, Kids Kicks was created with one simple belief: every child deserves the chance to play, learn, and grow through sports—no matter their family’s financial situation.

Kids Kicks collects gently used and new cleats from families in the community and donates them directly to recreation centers, after-school programs, and youth organizations in need.

Every year, millions of pairs of cleats sit unused in closets or end up in landfills. At the same time, families across the U.S. struggle with the high cost of sports participation. According to the Aspen Institute’s Project Play, one in three kids from low-income families never play sports due to equipment costs. 

Cleats—often priced between $40–$120 a pair—are a major barrier. Kids Kicks bridges that gap. 

By sourcing shoes that still have plenty of life left in them, and pairing them with donated new cleats from local retailers, we:

• Reduce waste and give cleats a second life.
• Remove financial barriers that prevent kids from joining teams.
• Support local centers that nurture community, teamwork, and confidence.

Since its founding, Kids Kicks has helped so many kids achieve their goal of running to the field and being a part of something great. As our mission continues we need YOU to help us in our mission to get more kids their cleats!

For Charles and the Kids Kicks team, it’s about more than just shoes—it’s about giving kids the opportunity to run, play, and dream big.