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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Thirt13n?

Thirt13n is a nonprofit organization that breaks cycles of poverty by creating career pathways, wraparound support, and entrepreneurial opportunities for youth, families, and veterans in underserved and rural communities.

Why is it called 'Thirt13n'?

The name represents transformation and new beginnings. Originally founded as the Youth Motorsports Academy, the organization later expanded its mission and evolved into what is now known as Thirt13n.

How does Thirt13n use sports to help students?
Thirt13n uses the universal language of sports to open students’ eyes—not just to the game, but to the industry behind the game. By meeting youth where their passion already lives, we transform sports from entertainment into a powerful gateway for learning, career exploration, and long-term opportunity.
Who do you serve?

We serve students from kindergarten through postsecondary education, along with their families, in rural and underserved communities. We also partner with schools, industry leaders, and donors who share our commitment to creating meaningful pathways from education to career.

What makes Thirt13n different from other nonprofits?
Thirt13n stands apart through a model that goes far beyond traditional programming. We use the universal power of sports to engage students, but we pair that engagement with holistic family support systems and a sustainable social-enterprise infrastructure. This approach not only inspires youth academically and professionally—it also strengthens families, builds community capacity, and generates real workforce opportunities. By combining education, mentorship, and revenue-producing enterprises under one aligned mission, Thirt13n delivers impact that is both immediate and enduring.
How can schools get involved?
Schools can partner with Thirt13n to bring real-world career pathways into the school day through hands-on learning, mentorship, digital career access, and school-based apprenticeships. We provide training, resources, and industry partnerships to help schools launch programs that inspire students and support families.
How can donors or companies support Thirt13n?

Donors can contribute to Thirt13n through philanthropic gifts or by sponsoring specific initiatives that directly benefit youth, families, and communities. Companies may partner as industry mentors, provide program sponsorships, or work alongside Thirt13n to build long-term workforce pathways that connect students to real-world careers.

Where does Thirt13n operate?

Thirt13n is rooted in Virginia, serving rural and underserved communities across the state. Our reach extends nationwide through online programs like Chat with a Champion, giving schools and students anywhere access to influential leaders and opportunities to learn about careers.

Alignment with Virginia Standards of Learning (SOLs)

Create13 enhances Virginia’s Standards of Learning by merging creativity, career readiness, and academic objectives. Hands-on interdisciplinary projects reinforce communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity while supporting SOLs across core subjects.

  • Students practice creative problem-solving, design thinking, and artistic expression across visual arts, fashion, music, and digital media.
  • Emphasis on critique, reflection, and presentation aligns directly with Fine Arts SOL competencies.
  • Storytelling, songwriting, and digital media production strengthen reading, writing, and speaking skills.
  • Structured reflections and presentations support composition and communication standards.
  • Creative projects highlight cultural identity, heritage, and the role of art in society.
  • Students examine local and global issues through design, media, and community-focused work.
  • Coding, design, and game development reinforce logic, spatial reasoning, measurement, and problem-solving.
  • Integrates computational thinking and applied mathematics in creative contexts.
  • Students build financial literacy, entrepreneurship, professionalism, teamwork, and leadership.
  • Direct alignment with Virginia’s Workplace Readiness Skills and CTE competencies.

Create13 Six-Week Rotating Career Structure

Cycle 1: Digital Art & Graphic Design

Capstone: Personal logo or brand kit.

Cycle 2: Music Production & Audio Engineering

Capstone: Original track or remix.

Cycle 3: Fashion Design & Creative Merchandising

Capstone: Simple fashion item or mini runway show.

Cycle 4: Game Design & Coding

Capstone: Playable game or level.

Cycle 5: Film, Photography & Digital Media

Capstone: Short film or photo series.

Cycle 6: Entrepreneurship & Creative Business

Capstone: Market Day showcase.

Create13 Pathway

EXCITE (Grades K–3) – Discover Creativity

  • Creative play and hands-on art activities
  • Intro to music, color, movement, and storytelling
  • School art fairs and family exhibitions
  • “My First Design” mini-projects

ENGAGE (Grades 4–6) – Explore Creative Fields

  • Intro workshops in drawing, digital art, and instrument basics
  • Visits to local creative studios and community art spaces
  • Collaborative class projects
  • Early introduction to creative technology

EDUCATE (Grades 7–8) – Build Skills & Identity

  • Visual, media, and performing arts coursework
  • Workshops with guest artists and industry mentors
  • Leadership and goal-setting sessions
  • Financial literacy for young creators
  • Middle school 'Mini Market'

EMPOWER (Grades 9–12) – Create & Lead

  • Portfolio development and college preparation
  • Paid internships and externships
  • Guest artist and designer intensives
  • Creative Career Fair and networking events
  • Advanced studio courses

EVOLVE (Postsecondary/Apprenticeship) – Launch & Lead

  • Creative industry apprenticeships
  • University and industry partnerships
  • Business startup support through P4ct
  • Alumni showcases and mentorship