Purpose
Building a Brighter Future Through Sports
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Our Story
Derek Joshua Gerson was more than just a sports enthusiast—he was a gifted child, a talented musical performer, a fierce Lakers fan, and a skilled basketball player. Born on September 13, 1994, Derek’s life was filled with a deep passion for sports and an unwavering love for his family and friends. Whether it was cheering for the Dodgers, Eagles, or his all-time favorite, Kobe Bryant, Derek’s enthusiasm for sports was infectious. He had a kind, gentle, and patient soul, and his wonderful sense of humor brought joy to everyone around him.
Tragically, Derek’s life was cut short on October 25, 2020, leaving a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved him, especially his beloved son, Landon, and wife, Amber. Despite his untimely passing, Derek’s spirit continues to inspire a cause that was close to his heart.
Before he passed, Derek was deeply moved by a story about a family who couldn’t afford the fees needed for their children to participate in sports. Having had the privilege of playing sports throughout his life, Derek had the idea of starting a foundation to help families struggling to cover the costs associated with youth sports.
In Derek’s honor, we are committed to bringing his vision to life through the establishment of the 44 Magic Sports Foundation. This foundation is dedicated to ensuring that every child who wants to play sports has the opportunity, regardless of financial circumstances. Our mission is to partner with organizations to raise funds that will be used to cover the costs of team fees, uniforms, and equipment by paying these expenses directly to the sports associations on behalf of the families in need.
What We Do
promote sports equity
We work closely with local and regional sports organizations, schools, and community groups to ensure that all families are aware of the foundation’s resources.
remove financial barriers
We provide direct financial support for registration fees, equipment, and uniforms, making sure no child is left out due to costs.
Build Community Partnerships
By partnering with coaches, leagues, and community leaders, we foster a supportive network that encourages youth participation in sports.
Empower Youth Through Sports
We focus on the holistic development of children, helping them gain confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships through team sports.
With your support, we’re breaking down barriers to give every child the chance to play
By working with 44 Magic Sports Foundation, you’re helping ensure that no child is left on the sidelines due to financial limitations. Team sports offer children more than just physical activity—they provide critical life skills like teamwork, leadership, and resilience. This initiative is about leveling the playing field, giving every child the opportunity to experience the transformative power of sports, regardless of their family’s financial situation.
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Our Mission
Our mission is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to participate in youth sports, regardless of their financial circumstances. We provide financial assistance to cover the costs of registration fees, equipment, and other expenses that can be a barrier to participation. We believe that no child should miss out on the benefits of sports due to a lack of resources.
Participation in youth sports is more than just a game; it is a vital tool for building character, confidence, and lifelong skills such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Studies show that kids who are active in sports perform better academically and develop stronger social skills, preparing them for success both on and off the field.
Unfortunately, the rising costs of youth sports programs have made participation increasingly difficult for many families. With the average family now spending over $900 per year per child athlete, children from lower-income families are often left behind, missing out on the critical benefits that sports provide.
The 44 Magic Sports Foundation was created to bridge this gap and help families access sports opportunities for their children. Through our funding programs, we work directly with local sports leagues to cover fees and ensure that kids can focus on enjoying the game and growing through participation. By removing financial barriers, we’re keeping kids engaged in positive, healthy activities that will benefit them for years to come.
We are committed to empowering the next generation of athletes and ensuring that every child has the chance to play, grow, and succeed through sports.
of Children
Drop out of organized sports by age 13 due to costs or lack of access
Families
Report that the cost of sports is a barrier to their child’s participation
CHILDREN
Participating in sports are more likely to graduate high school
more likely
To be physically active as an adult when playing sports as a youth
Your Donations Make a HUGE Impact
A Letter from the Founder
Losing a child changes everything. Life will never be the same, and it’s difficult to put the pain into words. What gives me strength is the love of my other children, the support of my family, and the memories I hold close. Raising Derek was a privilege and blessing I will forever be grateful for. Watching him grow—playing sports, becoming a man, and eventually a father—were some of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Knowing that this foundation carries forward Derek’s passion and vision for sports equity brings me comfort.
I’ll never forget the moment Derek and I talked about this idea to help kids whose families couldn’t afford to get them involved in sports. He was moved by the thought that some children might miss out on something so important, something that shaped him as a person. He researched how to start a non-profit, and I still have that piece of paper with his notes. It’s the last thing he ever wrote on a piece of paper, and it’s something I’ve held onto ever since.
His loss and that note have weighed heavy on my heart, and they’re what ultimately led me to create a Foundation focused on sports equity. This foundation is not just a way to honor Derek’s memory, but a way to bring his vision to life—to give other children the same opportunities that meant so much to him.
I truly believe that there will always be kids who can benefit from sports, and I hope that this foundation will grow into something lasting, something that changes lives for generations to come. I see this foundation as Derek’s legacy, a legacy built on his love for sports and his desire to help others, and I hope it will continue to grow and positively impact the lives of many children.
Thank you for joining us on this journey!
Laurie Speaks
Laurie Speaks
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