AKP Sports Foundation to Host 3rd annual 2026 NYC Back-to-School Festival and Invitational Tournament
Seven churches will come together for a day of sports, service, and community as AKP provides free school supplies and family programming in New York City
NEW YORK, N.Y. — August 2026 — AKP Sports Foundation will host its 2026 New York City Back-to-School Festival and Invitational Tournament on Saturday, August 29, bringing together churches, community organizations, volunteers, athletes, and families for a full day of sports, service, and community engagement at The Salvation Army Manhattan Citadel Corps Community Center in New York City.
The AKP Invitational Tournament will run from 9:00 AM–6:00 PM and feature teams representing seven church communities from across the region. The tournament serves as more than an athletic competition, bringing churches together through sports while supporting AKP’s broader mission of investing in children, families, and the next generation.
Alongside the tournament, AKP will host its free Back-to-School Festival from 11:00 AM–3:00 PM, serving students in 1st through 8th grade and their families as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
Children and families attending the festival will receive free school supplies and have the opportunity to participate in games, arts and crafts, activities, and other family-friendly programming. Community partners will also be invited to connect with families and share resources and services throughout the event.
“Back-to-School is about bringing people together around a shared commitment to the next generation,” said John Lee, President and CEO of AKP Sports Foundation. “By combining sports with service, we are able to create an environment where churches, community organizations, athletes, volunteers, and families can build meaningful relationships while making sure children begin the school year feeling supported and encouraged.”
The New York City event is part of AKP Sports Foundation’s broader national effort to use sports as a platform for mentorship, leadership development, character formation, and community service. Through programs and events across the country, AKP seeks to connect athletes and community leaders with opportunities to serve and invest in young people.
AKP Sports Foundation extends its gratitude to The Salvation Army for its partnership and hospitality in hosting the event at the Manhattan Citadel Corps Community Center, and to YJ Capital and JL Strategies for their sponsorship and support in making this year’s New York City programming possible.
AKP also thanks the seven participating church communities, volunteers, community partners, and supporters whose involvement will help make the day possible.
EVENT DETAILS
2026 AKP NYC Back-to-School Festival & Invitational Tournament
Date: Saturday, August 29, 2026
Location: The Salvation Army Manhattan Citadel Corps Community Center
AKP Invitational Tournament: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Back-to-School Festival: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM
Festival Admission: Free
Who: Children in grades 1–8 and their families
About AKP Sports Foundation
AKP Sports Foundation is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth and strengthening communities through sports, mentorship, and service. Through sports academies, community events, and leadership development programs, AKP uses athletics as a platform to cultivate character, leadership, and opportunity for the next generation.
Media Contact
John Lee, CEO & President- AKP Sports Foundation
Phone: (626) 720-3898
Email: john.lee@akpsports.org
Website: https://www.akpsports.org
