The Gold Crown Foundation is making waves in the community by offering a variety of youth sports and education programs. Annually, around 15,000 children engage in activities ranging from basketball and flag football to golf, volleyball, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) initiatives. This vibrant foundation not only focuses on sports but also enriches the educational landscape, creating a holistic experience for young participants.
Bill Hanzlik, a former Nuggets basketball player, coach, and co-founder of the Gold Crown Foundation, emphasizes the importance of three foundational pillars: sports performance, sports nutrition, and mental health. According to Hanzlik, these pillars work together to create a well-rounded approach to youth development, helping kids not just in sports, but also in life skills that extend far beyond the field and court.
This year, the Gold Crown Foundation is gearing up for its 3rd Annual Healthy Kids Expo, a fantastic event designed to immerse children and their families in a plethora of sports and health-oriented activities. “We want kids to just have a great time and realize that by being active and doing things, you’re going to feel better,” Hanzlik explains, underlining the event’s focus on promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
The expo promises an exciting array of activities, including inflatable obstacle courses, basketball skills drills, and even yoga sessions. DICK’s Sporting Goods will contribute yard games, while the Colorado Avalanche will set up an outdoor roller rink where participants can receive a free hockey stick. Families can also engage in well-being activities such as designing bookmarks, learning about financial literacy, and making healthy snacks, encouraging a fun yet educational environment.
Moreover, Hanzlik and Chris Dempsey, an NBA reporter for Altitude Sports, will engage attendees with discussions about the future of the Nuggets and their aspirations for the upcoming season. The presence of the Broncos Cheerleaders, the beloved SuperMascot Rocky (of the Denver Nuggets), Miles the Mascot (Denver Broncos), Chip the Mascot (CU Boulder), and Bernie the Mascot (Avalanche) will add an eminent excitement. Coaches and athletes will conduct mini-camps in volleyball, flag football, basketball, and dance, providing hands-on experiences that inspire kids to engage in sports.
Hanzlik ardently believes in the transformative power of sports, stating, “You learn a lot through sports. I’m a big believer in sports. Our tagline for the Foundation is ‘Preparing Kids for the Game of Life.’ Well, sports and the things you do teach teamwork, character, commitment, and responsibility—all those qualities that help you succeed in various aspects of life.” His passion for empowering youth shines through his words, emphasizing the foundation’s commitment to not just athletic achievement, but personal growth.
LINK: Register for Healthy Kids Expo
Mark your calendars! The Gold Crown Foundation’s Healthy Kids Expo is set for Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Gold Crown Field House, located at 150 S. Harlan Street, Lakewood, CO. While the event is free to the public, registration is required in advance, making it easy to ensure a fun-filled experience for all attendees.
