Applications will open December 1, 2025 to January 13, 2026
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Applications will open December 1, 2025 to January 13, 2026 -
PLAYpass
Every child deserves the chance to PLAY.
PLAYpass makes that possible by removing barriers and providing access to sports and recreation programs for youth across Boulder County.
What Is PLAYpass?
PLAYpass removes barriers and provides access to sports and recreation programs for youth across Boulder County.
PLAYpass helps families with children ages 0–17 access sports and recreation by providing financial support through a PLAYpass scholarship. Families can register for one of the approved programs, giving youth opportunities to stay active, build confidence, and discover new passions. Our approach also includes advocating for reduced program costs with our partners, helping each PLAYpass scholarship go further and reach even more families.
PLAYpass is more than financial support. We recognize that families often face additional challenges with language, technology, and access. That’s why our staff takes an individualized approach-assisting in removing barriers and ensuring every participant feels confident and supported throughout the registration process.
In collaboration with a diverse network of community organizations and service providers, we promote recreation that is inclusive, welcoming, and culturally responsive in our rapidly changing world. By promoting healthy lifestyles, building lifelong skills, and creating spaces where every child feels they belong, PLAYpass empowers youth to play, grow, and succeed-no matter their circumstances.
Who Can Apply
PLAYpass is open to youth ages 0–17 who live in Boulder County. Families qualify by providing proof of participation in a financial assistance program, which includes, but are not limited to:
Free or Reduced Lunch
SNAP
CCAP
WIC
Medicaid
Boulder Parks & Recreation Financial Aid
Boulder Housing Partners Lease
When To Apply
Winter/Spring
December 1, 2025 – January 6, 2026
Summer/Fall:
May 1, 2026 – June 6, 2026
Mark your calendars so you don’t miss your chance to apply!
Where You Can Use Your PLAYpass
Community Minded, Partner Focused
Beyond supporting youth, PLAYpass also strengthens our community network by uplifting local businesses and connecting them with families across Boulder County. Whether it’s a small neighborhood studio or a well-known recreation center, our partners gain meaningful exposure while deepening their connections to the broader community we all serve.
Other Ways to PLAY
We know that choosing just one activity-or trying something new—can be a challenge with so many interests and opportunities out there! That’s why PLAYpass partners with a variety of sports and recreation organizations to bring unique clinics and camps to Boulder County youth at free or low-cost options. These programs give participants the chance to explore new passions, build skills, and connect with their community in a supportive environment.
If you’re interested in partnering with u, please contact Greta Sandberg, Program Manager, at greta@playboulder.org.
Recent Partnerships Include:
Boulder Ballet: Bilingual Ballet Classes
Sanitas CrossFit: Youth CrossFit Classes
Pedaling Minds: Learn to Bike Program
Women’s Wilderness: Girls Lead for Life Program
Spring 2025 Girl Lead for Life outdoor climbing excursion
How to Use PLAYpass
Apply for PLAYpass online or with a paper form during one of our two yearly application periods; December–January or May–June (exact dates vary).
Step 1:
After the deadline, give us two weeks to review your application. If approved, you’ll get an email with your PLAYpass details.
Step 2:
Once approved, choose the program you’d like to use your PLAYpass for and let our team know!
Step 3:
We’ll send you all the info you need to register and connect you with your program contact.
Step 4:
That’s it! Get out there, have fun, and go PLAY!
Step 5:
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes! Families are encouraged to apply for multiple children at once. When filling out a PLAYpass application, you’ll have the option to “add another child” after completing information for the first. You can continue adding as many children as needed before submitting your application.
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Paper applications are available in both English and Spanish at North Boulder Rec Center at 3170 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80304 (Hours: Monday through Thursday 6 a.m. - 9:30 p.m., Friday 6 a.m. - 7:30 p.m., Saturday 6:30 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sunday 7:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.). They have also been shared electronically with all of our current service providers and are available linked here. Please return paper applications to North Boulder Recreation or or mail to Attn: PLAYpass, PO Box 20935, Boulder, CO 80308
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Yes! If you need any assistance with your application please reach out to us here at PLAYpass either by email at playpass@playboulder.org or by phone/text at 720-791-2460.
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PLAYpass applications are accepted twice per year. Once in the Winter/Spring and again in the Summer/Fall. Application dates vary each year, so be sure to check our website for the most up-to-date information.
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Each child may receive one PLAYpass per calendar year. Families must reapply each year, receive a new PLAYpass and to remain eligible.
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Approved participants have about six months to use their PLAYpass during the current session (Winter/Spring or Summer/Fall). If you need more time, please contact us, extensions can be granted on a case-by-case basis.
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Not exactly. Each PLAYpass is tied to one approved child, but you’re absolutely encouraged to apply for additional PLAYpasses if you have more than one child at home!
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Approvals are made through a lottery system and drawn by family, not by individual child. For example, if a parent applies for three children and the family is selected, all three children will receive PLAYpass scholarships.
PLAY it Forward!
Your support helps us keep PLAYpass thriving. When you donate, you help open doors for more youth to experience the joy and benefits of recreation. Because of your support:
1798 youth have gained access to programming
29 individual service providers have partnered to support low-income youth
96% of participants have reported an increased activity
97% of participants have reported feeling welcomed and included at their chosen service provider
Many families remain on the waitlist each year for support. Our goal is to ensure that no family in Boulder County is turned away from the opportunity to enroll their child in a program that can change their life. To help us support more youth in need, click the button below: