About Us
Every Kid Deserves a Next Play.
why we exist
Next Play Collective is a Bakersfield-based
501(c)(3) nonprofit organization expanding access to youth sports, recreation, leadership, and developmental opportunities across Kern County.
For many families, participation comes with more than a registration fee. Uniforms, equipment, transportation, program costs, and limited local opportunities can all become barriers that keep young people on the sidelines.
Next Play Collective was created to help reduce those barriers.
We work to make meaningful opportunities more accessible while building programs and partnerships that support young people both in and beyond sports.
what we do
Our work includes accessible youth programming, financial assistance and payment options when available, community partnerships, volunteer opportunities, and leadership and development experiences for teens and young adults.
Through programs like MLS GO, Hip Hop, and Next Play Rising, we create different ways for young people to participate, grow, connect, and lead.
Who We Serve
Next Play Collective serves youth and families throughout Bakersfield and Kern County, with a focus on creating opportunities that are welcoming, accessible, and responsive to the needs of our community.
We know every family’s circumstances are different. Our goal is not simply to offer programs, but to help create pathways into opportunities that might otherwise feel out of reach.
Where We’re Going
Next Play Collective is still growing, and so is our vision.
We are building toward a future where young people throughout Kern County have more opportunities to play, create, lead, learn, and belong—regardless of their family’s financial circumstances or where their interests take them.
Because every young person deserves the opportunity to find their next play.