20 Really Good People: Plus One
After recognizing 20 remarkable individuals whose compassion and leadership continue to shape Jacksonville’s philanthropic landscape, Circles turns its attention to one inspiring young person whose work proves that the future of giving is already in very good hands. Jai Patel stands as this year’s Plus One, representing the next generation of philanthropists through his nonprofit, Foster Athletic Network, an organization created from a simple idea, a clear purpose and a generous heart.
When Patel saw how financial barriers were keeping children in the foster system from participating in team sports – and from the invaluable life skills those experiences provide– he didn’t just see a problem; he took action. Understanding that lessons learned on the field or court help shape confidence and character, he set out to remove those obstacles for young people who needed those opportunities most.
He launched Foster Athletic Network, or FAN, in February 2025 with a mission to empower foster children through sports by providing access, mentorship and meaningful moments of play. In its first year, Patel focused on building a foundation that could create real, immediate impact. With the help of friends and classmates, Patel raised an impressive $12,000 in FAN’s first year, with another $1,000 raised through Patel’s children’s book, “Marcus Finds His Team, which was released last summer.
Patel plans to host larger fundraising events in the coming year, including a sports day and golf or pickleball tournaments.
“The support has been amazing. It makes me feel great seeing my passion spread throughout families and friends,” Patel said.
Patel hopes to see FAN grow, eventually expanding to serve children across the country and even throughout the world. Last summer, Patel was able to share his love of basketball with children at a foster care center in Kenya. Patel brought roughly 100 basketballs, athletic clothing and shoes for the children and played with them every day when they returned from school for the week he spent there. This experience further underscored Patel’s desire to help foster children everywhere, no matter their location.
“All over the world, there’s foster children,” Patel said. “I’m trying to help as many as possible.”
At the heart of it all, he wants foster kids to have fun, build friendships and experience the life lessons that sports naturally teach.
“The whole thing is about sports,” Patel said. “Getting foster kids out there, playing with them, having fun with them for the day. And giving them opportunities to do the things I have been privileged to do.”
This year, he hopes to collaborate with other Jacksonville organizations to help FAN sponsor children in the sports they love most.
Patel’s work shows what one determined young person can build with heart, clarity and the courage to try. If this is what the next generation of philanthropy looks like, the future appears to be in very good hands.
