More Than a Game: United in Play Scores Big for Mental Health and Equity Through Sports
More Than a Game: United in Play Scores Big for Mental Health and Equity Through Sports
By
May 16, 2025
[Nationwide] - Flemington, NJ – United Way of Hunterdon County is making significant strides in its commitment to enhancing community well-being, led by the organization’s new CEO, Jennifer Thompson, MSW, who joined the nonprofit six months ago. Under Thompson’s leadership, the organization is addressing critical needs through the introduction of innovative programs, including the groundbreaking “United in Play” initiative—a first-of-its-kind program aimed at addressing the youth mental health crisis while expanding access to sports for underserved children.
Founded to improve lives and advance the common good, United Way of Hunterdon County has long been committed to responding to local challenges. The organization has cultivated deep roots within the community, and with the launch of United in Play, it is addressing an urgent issue: the intersection of youth mental health and access to sports for families struggling to afford extracurricular activities.
"I am thrilled to be part of United Way of Hunterdon County at such a pivotal moment in its history," said Thompson. "The organization has a strong foundation, and with the help of our community partners, we are evolving to meet the complex and urgent needs of our youth today. United in Play is a critical response to the growing youth mental health crisis, and it embodies the spirit of unity that has defined our organization for the past four decades."
Addressing Barriers to Youth Sports for ALICE Families
A core challenge facing many families in Hunterdon County, despite its status as one of the wealthiest counties in the nation, is the economic disparity that leaves many children without access to sports. Approximately 26% of the county's population falls under the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold, and families in this category often lack disposable income for extracurricular activities. The high costs of registration fees, equipment, and transportation are significant barriers to entry for these youth.
Through United in Play, United Way of Hunterdon County partners with local leagues and organizations to eliminate or reduce the financial barriers to participation, covering registration fees and equipment costs for children in ALICE families. This partnership ensures that no child is excluded from the benefits of sports, regardless of their family’s financial situation.
Additionally, the program incorporates a mental health support framework for youth athletes. United Way of Hunterdon County is providing mental health first aid training to coaches, empowering them to identify signs of youth in crisis and support children who may be struggling emotionally or mentally. This proactive approach helps create a more supportive environment for youth to thrive on and off the field and courts.
“We are leveling the playing field, ensuring that all kids—regardless of their financial situation—have access to sports, which are essential not just for physical health but also for emotional well-being,” said Thompson. “By removing financial barriers and providing mental health training to coaches, we are giving children the opportunity to experience the many benefits of sports while also offering the mental health support they need.”
Expanding Access to Telehealth Counseling and Digital Resources
To further support youth and families, United in Play has partnered with BetterHelp to provide free telehealth counseling for youth ages 12 and older. This initiative addresses significant barriers to mental health support, such as insurance costs, long wait times for therapy, and transportation challenges, by offering convenient, accessible virtual counseling sessions.
In addition, United Way of Hunterdon County is developing an online digital content library focused on healthy living, mental health, nutrition, and mindset coaching. Led by trained professionals, this library will be available to all partner teams, providing valuable resources that can be shared with athletes and their families. The content is designed to promote mental wellness and offer tools to build resilience, both on and off the field.
A Vision for Replication: Expanding the Program Nationally
While United in Play was born in Hunterdon County, its potential for wider impact is significant. The initiative is designed to be replicable, with the goal of partnering with other communities across the nation. By leveraging data-driven insights and adapting the program to local needs, United Way of Hunterdon County is inviting other organizations to partner with them and bring United in Play to their community.
Thompson sees the model as a call to action for communities across the United States. “If we can come together to support youth through sports and mental health initiatives, we can create lasting change. This is an opportunity to build a national network of support for young people who need it the most,” said Thompson.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening the Community for the Next 40 Years
As United Way of Hunterdon County moves into its next 40 years, the organization is poised to continue its important work, guided by Thompson’s vision of innovation and community empowerment. With a background in leading organizational change and social impact programs, Thompson’s leadership is transforming the nonprofit’s approach to community service.
"Through our efforts to address the mental health crisis and remove barriers to youth sports, we are building a stronger, more resilient community," said Thompson. "Our work is just beginning, and I am proud to lead an organization that is so committed to making a difference in the lives of those who need it most."
How to Get Involved
United Way of Hunterdon County invites national sports enthusiasts, teams and brands, as well as local businesses, community organizations, and individuals to get involved with United in Play. There are various ways to contribute to this critical cause, including financial support, volunteering, and community partnerships.
To learn more about United in Play and how to get involved, visit the organization’s website at United Way of Hunterdon County. For further information on how to support the program or explore partnership opportunities, please reach out via the contact details available on the site.
As United Way of Hunterdon County celebrates its anniversary, its commitment to addressing the evolving needs of the community remains steadfast. United in Play is a shining example of how the nonprofit is innovating to meet the needs of youth, and under the leadership of Jennifer Thompson, the future of the organization looks promising.
For more information about United Way of Hunterdon County and its programs, visit the following links:
