Kids Inc. raises fees to fund increased security

Kids Incorporated will hire off-duty law enforcement officers for the more than 6,600 youth games it hosts annually, resulting in a 24% in registration fees. The move follows a recent incident involving an aggressive spectator, which President and CEO Jimmy Lackey said underlined a growing problem at youth sporting events. 

“There’s no place for that kind of behavior in youth sports,” Lackey said. “It’s unfortunate we have to do this, but we can’t allow it to happen again. My blood boils just thinking about these incidents — parents teeing off on coaches or officials. These are kids.” 

Lackey explained that the decision was made after extensive discussion at a recent board meeting. He noted that Kids Inc. “cannot allow” such incidents to occur without taking action. Individuals involved in the most recent altercation have been banned from all Kids Inc. events, and Lackey said they will be arrested if they return. 

“We’ve worked with local law enforcement and Amarillo ISD to make sure the message is clear,” he said. “If you act like this, you’re done. We’ve trespassed people from our properties and events, and we’ll fully support any legal repercussions.” 

To implement year-round security across thousands of games, Kids Inc. must coordinate with Randall and Potter County sheriffs, Amarillo ISD police, and the Amarillo Police Department. That high volume of off-duty staffing, Lackey said, is the main reason fees will rise. 

“We host about 6,600 games a year,” he said. “That means we need 6,600 law enforcement shifts. It’s a puzzle. We’re at the mercy of how many off-duty officers are available, but we have no choice if we want our kids, coaches, and spectators to be safe.” 

The 24% fee hike, which took effect with the spring sports season, may be burdensome for many families, especially single parents and grandparents on fixed incomes. Still, Lackey said Kids Inc. will work with school principals and community partners to offer financial assistance. 

Our programs have always been affordable, so this is devastating for some,” he said. “At the same time, we’re committed to helping low-income parents, and we’ll continue to work with local schools, sponsors, and donors to make sure kids who want to play can still play. In the end, we’re responsible for thousands of kids every season, and safety has to come first.”