The PGA TOUR Champions American Family Insurance Championship raised $2,035,000 in 2025. Since 2016, the Steve Stricker American Family Insurance Foundation has distributed $21.78 million through 1,171 grants to charitable organizations—continuing to make a meaningful impact in our communities. As the championship approaches its 10th tournament, we highlight one of those organizations and the important work they do.
In a generation where kids move less than ever, Active Youth Wisconsin is making moves to help change that. The Madison-area nonprofit provides programs and events so all kids, regardless of background or financial situation, can access opportunities to be active. Its initiatives are designed to build physical health and mental well-being, while supporting confidence and positive peer connections.
Active Youth Wisconsin partners with schools and families to remove barriers through programs such as Training Teams, after-school programming and its Grants 4 Schools initiative.
“Our mission is centered on creating accessible, inclusive opportunities that build not just physical health, but confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging,” said Amanda Marek, executive director at Active Youth Wisconsin. “What we’re really providing isn’t just programming, it’s dignity, opportunity, and the chance for kids to feel like they belong.”
A community-driven movement reinvesting in youth well-being, Active Youth Wisconsin returns 100% of event entry fees to local schools and communities.
Founded in 2011 as Tri 4 Schools, the organization began with a focus on building healthy, active kids through events. In December 2024, it became Active Youth Wisconsin to expand beyond its original programs and create more ways for kids to get moving.
Events for every child to get active
Active Youth Wisconsin offers inclusive, community-powered opportunities that support physical activity and personal growth, while building lifelong healthy habits.
- Birdie Derby: The Thanksgiving Day Birdie Derby 5k/10k run/walk draws more than 6,000 participants and directs 100% of proceeds back into the community, supporting financial aid and Grants 4 Schools. Since 2011, Tri 4 Schools has donated more than $500,000 to more than 200 schools.
- Minds in Motion: A six-week, 12-lesson after-school run training program for grades K-8 that combines movement and focus-building activities. The program prepares kids for a 5K fun run and encourages them to continue challenging themselves.
- Tri 4 Schools Race Series: Three youth triathlon events with varying distances designed to meet kids at their ability level and build confidence. What makes the series unique is that 100% of entry fees go back to schools to support physical education budgets and equipment.
- Training Teams: Eight to 10-week after-school programs that prepare kids for Tri 4 Schools races through group training, teamwork and movement. The program culminates in participation in an area triathlon. Scholarships, equipment, transportation and inclusive design help ensure access for all kids. The curriculum also includes mindfulness activities to support focus and stress management.
- Train Like a (Movement) Pro: A six-week strength and agility series that focuses on process and progress. Using age-appropriate strength training, balance work, movement mechanics and agility drills, the program builds coordination, speed and overall athletic ability while reinforcing goal setting and healthy habits.
Grants 4 Schools and financial aid
Launched in September 2017, Grants 4 Schools funds school health and wellness initiatives supported by Active Youth Wisconsin events. The organization accepts applications from teachers, students and community members. Grants range from $500 to $3,000 for proposals that provide access, equipment or curriculum to improve kids’ physical and mental health. In 2025, the program awarded more than $25,000. The application reopens in May. Active Youth Wisconsin also offers financial aid so every child can participate. Families needing assistance can complete a confidential application for support.
Ten years of community investment
The 2026 PGA TOUR Champions American Family Insurance Championship marks the event’s 10th tournament. Each year, funds raised through the championship are donated back to the community through the Steve Stricker American Family Insurance Foundation.
Active Youth Wisconsin has received grant support each of the past 10 years, dating back to the inaugural AmFam Championship in 2016.
“Sustained partnerships like the one with the Steve Stricker American Family Insurance Foundation mean we’re not just thinking about what we can do this year; we’re building something that lasts,” Marek said. “It allows us to deepen our impact, strengthen relationships with schools and families, and continue showing up for kids year after year.”
Grant funding has helped the organization grow from serving a handful of schools as Tri 4 Schools into what is now Active Youth Wisconsin. With sustained support, it has expanded its reach and launched three new after-school programs, including growth in Training Teams, now its most impactful program.
“The impact of support from the Foundation is clear. We’re reaching more kids, in more communities, with more consistent and meaningful programming,” said Marek. “At the end of the day, this kind of partnership isn’t just funding, it’s belief in the mission and a shared commitment to changing the trajectory for kids in our community.”
Learn more
For more information about Active Youth Wisconsin, visit its website.
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Media contacts:
Janet Masters / Brandon Harrison, Media Relations
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About Steve Stricker American Family Insurance Foundation
Established in 2013 when Steve Stricker became a brand ambassador for American Family Insurance, the mission of the foundation is to inspire and develop strong families and healthy kids so they can pursue their dreams. The foundation supports organizations that produce tangible outcomes that align with this mission. Web: https://amfamchampionship.com/foundation/; X: @StrickerFNDN
About the American Family Insurance Championship
The American Family Insurance Championship was created in 2016 by American Family Insurance, PGA TOUR Champions and PGA TOUR player and Wisconsin native Steve Stricker. Since its inception, the championship and associated events have raised nearly $22 million for the American Family Children’s Hospital and other charities. The 2026 championship will be held June 1-7 at TPC Wisconsin in Madison, Wisconsin. For more information: Web: www.amfamchampionship.com; Facebook: American Family Insurance Championship; Instagram: @amfamchampionship; TikTok: @AmFamChampionship. #AmFamChamp
