Friendly group photo of Active Family Development team and volunteers
Our Story

About Active Family Development Foundation

Meet the passionate team and inspiring story behind AFD's mission to strengthen families through community-driven activities.

The Beginning

Active Family Development was founded to respond to a growing need for affordable, inclusive family activities in Arizona. Witnessing the impact of sedentary lifestyles, technology overuse, and financial barriers to youth sports, our founders set out to make physical activity fun, accessible, and meaningful for all families.

Children playing at an outdoor event

Growing Together

What started as a simple idea to get families moving together has quickly grown into a vital community resource. Parents want to play alongside their children, not just watch from the sidelines. They want to be teammates and coaches, not just spectators.

Community event with families playing together

Our Vision

Our activities strengthen family bonds in ways that go beyond physical fitness. Parents and children learn to communicate better, work as teams, and support each other through challenges. We envision a vibrant, active environment where families grow stronger together through shared experiences.

Families bonding through sports activities
Our Foundation

Mission, Vision & Values

Our Mission

Our mission at Active Family Development is to completely remove the financial barrier that divides families and children from participating in recreational sports and outdoor activities.

Our Vision

A vibrant, active community where families grow stronger together through shared experiences.

Core Values

These principles guide everything we do, from planning events to interacting with our community.

Illustration representing inclusivity, wellness, safety, and community values

Guiding our mission every day

Inclusivity

We welcome families of all backgrounds, structures, and abilities.

Wellness

We promote physical and mental health through active play.

Safety

We create secure environments where families can participate with confidence.

Connection

We facilitate meaningful interactions between family members.

Community

We collaborate with local partners to strengthen our community.

Founders

Meet The Founders

  • Cale & Kelsey Nino

    Cale & Kelsey Nino

    Founders

    Born and raised in Arizona, Kelsey and Cale Nino are the passionate husband-and-wife team behind Active Family Development. As parents to four beautifully energetic children, they understand firsthand the importance—and the challenges—of keeping kids active, engaged, and thriving through sports and movement. Their journey to launch Active Family Development was fueled by a shared frustration: the high cost and limited accessibility of youth athletics. Determined to create a better way, Kelsey and Cale combined their love for family, fitness, and community to build a program that supports families like theirs—making athletic development more affordable, inclusive, and impactful. With deep roots in Arizona and a mission grounded in family values, the Ninos are committed to helping kids grow stronger—physically, mentally, and emotionally—while empowering families to stay active together.

Leadership

Meet The Board

Our dedicated board members bring diverse skills and passion to help fulfill our mission across Arizona.

  • Chantell

    Chantell

    Board Member

    As a proud and active mother of two energetic boys, I've always believed in the power of movement, teamwork, and healthy living. My journey into health and fitness began as a young girl with a deep love for sports—a passion that shaped my lifestyle and values. Over the years, that same drive led me to coach my sons' athletic teams, where I discovered the joy of teaching and inspiring young athletes. Today, I'm a dedicated PE teacher who loves helping youth grow stronger, more confident, and motivated through physical activity. I'm also deeply committed to giving back and staying involved in my community, especially when it comes to supporting and empowering young people.

  • Matt

    Matt

    Board Member

    Matt brings valuable insights and commitment to our organization as a member of our board of directors.

  • Chaw

    Chaw

    Board Member

    Chaw contributes to our organization's governance and strategic direction as a dedicated board member.

Join Our Team

We're always looking for passionate individuals to join our team. If you're interested in volunteering or serving on our board, please contact us at activefamilydevelopment@gmail.com.

Our Impact

By the Numbers

Since August 2024, AFD has created lasting impact by providing free activities, building community connections, and helping families thrive together.

0+

Families Served

Programs

for the whole family

0%

Free Activities

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Events a Year

Infographic showing total dollars saved by families, participant numbers, and event highlights

Making a Difference

Every activity contributes to stronger families and communities

Real Stories of Family Transformation

"The activities have brought our family closer than ever. We laugh, play, and grow together thanks to AFD!"

Local Parent

Family of 4

Real Stories of Family Transformation

"As a single mom, I never thought I could give my kids these opportunities for free. Thank you!"

AFD Participant

Family of 3

Want to See Our Full Impact?

Dive deeper into our community impact with our comprehensive 2024-2025 report, featuring detailed program outcomes, financial transparency, and stories from the families we serve.

Download Full Impact Report
Join Us Today

Want to Join or Support the Movement?

There are many ways to get involved with Active Family Development Foundation. Whether you want to attend events, volunteer your time, or contribute financially, your support helps us continue providing free activities to families in our community.

Volunteer With Us

Share your time and talents with our community. From event staffing to program development, there's a place for everyone on our team.

Join Our Events

Bring your family to our free activities throughout Arizona. Experience the fun and connection that our programs provide.

Ready to make a difference?