But we all know a significant amount of cash is also mandatory.

Even at the recreational level, sports are quite costly nowadays. And that means some families, even in a largely affluent community such as ours, simply can't afford to have their children participate.

Enter the Rick Jeffrey Kids Foundation -- a still relatively new organization that aims to help keep local youngsters from falling through the financial cracks when it comes to athletics.

Established by Shailene Papple as a tribute to her father, a lifelong sports enthusiast who died two years ago from a heart attack, the foundation has made some encouraging headway since its 2007 inception.

With sizeable injections from the Lesley Wells Slo-Pitch Tournament and a charity barbecue put on by chiropractor Dr. Dan Chajko of the Health Centre of Milton, the foundation has so far helped cover the cost of sporting endeavours for six kids -- and is in the process of doing so for three others.

But as Papple has quickly learned, the challenge of an initiative such as hers doesn't lie solely with bringing the money in.

"There's definitely reluctance for people to admit they need help. Pretty much all the requests we've had come through third parties, like Big Brothers or the Children's Aid Society," she explained.

That would suggest some families who don't deal with these organizations, but still require financial assistance simply aren't asking for it. And that's an awful shame, given that the foundation is still able to help more youngsters -- especially if Chajko's second annual barbecue (Saturday, Sept. 6 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Main/Ontario St. plaza) enjoys the success it did last year.

Knowing just how much can be gained from sports, it's sad to think of pride being an impassable roadblock to what should be a part of any boy or girl's childhood.

So if you need a little assistance to get your youngster into sports -- or would like to donate to the cause -- please contact Papple at rickjeffreykidsfoundation@cogeco.ca or (416) 418-0378.

And here's hope for another big turnout at next month's barbecue.