Our Mission

The mission of the Devils Youth Foundation is to champion, advance, and support equitable and inclusive access to life-changing experiences for youth in New Jersey by leveraging the power of sports, entertainment, and music.

The Challenge

New Jersey’s youth face challenges that stifle their growth potential and negatively impact their quality of life. The Devils Youth Foundation is taking on these challenges by creating and expanding youth programs through strategic partnerships with community organizations. Together, we will tackle a number of the issues our youth encounter to provide healthy alternatives that improve their chances of success.

The Solution

The Devils Youth Foundation is squarely focused on areas where we see great challenges – and where we see an opening to make a difference. The youth of New Jersey deserve great programs and activities that will get them moving and provide opportunities to satisfy their curiosity for new experiences. Through the platform amplified by the athletes and entertainers who perform at Prudential Center, we will use the power of sports and entertainment for good. What do we see as success? Improved physical well-being and life skills. Increased student participation in music. Higher educational opportunities and a better quality of life for those in need.

Our Vision

We envision a world where all youth are sustainably healthy, supported, and feel empowered to pursue their dreams.

Our Pillars

Getting Kids Active and Moving

Expanding Access to Sports and Recreation
Sports and recreation have the power to build confidence, encourage healthy lifestyles, foster connection, and create opportunities for young people to thrive. Through hockey, physical activity, and recreation-based programming, the Devils Youth Foundation is helping more children across New Jersey get active, stay engaged, and experience the benefits of play. By investing in access, coaching, equipment, programming, and community partnerships, we are working to ensure that every child has the opportunity to participate, grow, and reach their full potential. We believe that sport is powerful, and we are committed to breaking down barriers so more young people can experience the lifelong impact of being part of a team.

Creating Safe Spaces

Improving Physical and Mental Well-Being and Building Life Skills
Every young person deserves a safe and supportive environment where they feel valued, connected, and empowered to succeed. Through community partnerships, mentorship opportunities, and youth-focused programming, the Devils Youth Foundation is helping create spaces where young people can build confidence, develop resilience, strengthen relationships, and support their overall well-being. By fostering environments that encourage belonging, personal growth, and open dialogue, we are helping equip the next generation with the skills, support systems, and opportunities they need to navigate challenges and achieve their goals.

Food & Nutrition Security

Expanding Access to Nutritious Meals and Healthy Resources
Access to nutritious food is foundational to a child's health, development, and ability to succeed. The Devils Youth Foundation works alongside community partners to help address food insecurity by supporting programs that increase access to healthy meals, fresh food, and essential resources for children and families. Together, we are helping ensure that more young people have the nourishment they need to learn, participate in activities, and thrive both in and out of the classroom. Through innovative partnerships and community-driven solutions, we are contributing to a healthier and more food-secure future for New Jersey families.

Arts Education

Expanding Access to Creativity, Music, and the Arts
The arts provide young people with powerful opportunities to express themselves, build confidence, develop critical thinking skills, and explore their creativity. Through strategic investments and community partnerships, the Devils Youth Foundation is helping increase access to arts and music education for youth across New Jersey. By supporting programs that inspire imagination and self-expression, we are helping create pathways for academic success, personal growth, and lifelong learning. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to experience the transformative power of the arts and to discover their unique voice through creative expression.

Our Team

Board of Directors

Allison Blitzer
Board Chairperson Managing Partner, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment
Tad Brown
Chief Executive Officer, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment
Vaughn Crowe
Managing Partner, Newark Venture Partners
Marjorie Harris
Managing Partner, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment
Chris James
VP Strategy and Business Development, RWJBarnabas Health
Sarah Keh
Vice President. Inclusion Solutions, Prudential Financial
Jake Reynolds
Board President, President, New Jersey Devils
Brad Shron
EVP, General Counsel, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment
Kate Madigan
Devils Assistant General Manager
Nikki Zajac
Board Member, NJ Colonials

Staff Directory

Kate Whitman Annis
Executive Director
Jess Swirson
Development Manager
Shasa Revell
Grant and Community Manager
Contact Us
25 Lafayette St, Newark NJ 07102

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