Kicking Off 2026: A Year of Partnership, Growth, and Impact

As we step into 2026, we’re proud to officially launch another year of our Charity Partner Program – and to begin it the best way we know how: by bringing our Charity Partners together!

Last week, we hosted our first Charity Partner meetings of the year, welcoming nonprofit leaders from across our network to connect, share insights, and set intentions for the months ahead. These early conversations are an important starting point, creating space for collaboration and reflection as we move into a year of shared work and collective impact.

“Feeling the energy in the room this week reminds me that while our missions are diverse, our commitment to kids is a strong, unifying force.” – Jenna Williams, Charity Partnerships Program Manager

This year, we’re excited to introduce a refreshed approach to the Charity Partner Program – one that places even greater emphasis on goal setting, strategic planning, and clarity around what success looks like for each organization. As part of this evolution, Charity Partners active in the program will engage in Learning Cohorts and 1:1 check-ins, individualized long-term goal-setting work designed to help them identify priorities, establish and track metrics, plan for sustainable growth, and navigate the year(s) ahead with greater focus and confidence. This work is complemented by our Alumni Network, which keeps former Charity Partners engaged through continued connection, learning opportunities, continued participation in the Ride for Kids, and access to the broader Rodman for Kids network – ensuring support doesn’t end when a formal partnership concludes. This ensures that every organization remains an active part of our vibrant community ecosystem, where Alumni and Active Charity Partners exchange ideas and offer mutual support long after their initial goals are met.

While many people know Rodman for Kids through the Ride for Kids, the work it supports extends far beyond a single day. The Charity Partner Program is a year-round commitment to strengthening youth-focused nonprofits by providing resources, professional development, goal-setting, and opportunities to learn from one another. Through convenings, strategic thought partnership, and ongoing support, we work alongside our Charity Partners to help them build capacity and better serve the kids and families who rely on them.

These first meetings helped ground us in what matters most: connection, clarity, and collaboration. They reinforced the idea that when nonprofits are supported behind the scenes – with tools, structure, and strong relationships – they’re better equipped to create meaningful impact in their communities.

Throughout 2026, we’ll continue to highlight the people, partnerships, and progress that make this work possible. From nonprofit leaders navigating complex challenges to organizations growing stronger through shared learning, these stories reflect the depth and purpose of our Charity Partner Program.

We’re grateful to our Charity Partners for their trust, openness, and commitment, and we’re excited for the year ahead. This work doesn’t start or stop with one event – it’s ongoing, intentional, and rooted in the belief that supporting the organizations doing the work is one of the most powerful ways to support kids.

Here’s to another year of partnership, progress, and brighter futures!

To learn more about the Charity Partner Program and check out our 2026 Charity Partners, click HERE.