Q. What is GFFT?

A. GFFT (pronounced “gift”) is an acronym that stands for Genesis Foundation for Fitness & Tennis, a not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) foundation formed in 2006 by Genesis Health Clubs. Though Genesis is the creator of GFFT, the Foundation is guided by an independent, volunteer Board of Directors from all sectors of the community.

GFFT was founded on the premise that physical activity improves quality of life, and when begun at an early age, physical activity offers healthy habits that may result in lifelong benefits in health and well-being.

Q. What is the purpose of GFFT?

A. The purpose of the Genesis Foundation for Fitness & Tennis (GFFT) is to provide funds to allow all citizens, regardless of background and means, the opportunity to participate in recreational and/or competition fitness activities. GFFT will also provide funding and scholarships for individuals interested in tennis, both for recreation and competition. The Foundation will provide this funding to at-risk, disadvantaged and otherwise under-funded youth, including but not limited to:

Students at low-income schools
Promising athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds
Physically and mentally handicapped individuals
Other individuals of limited means and opportunity

Q. What kinds of projects are of interest to GFFT?

A. Our focus is on at-risk, disadvantaged or otherwise under-funded youth, to facilitate a variety of activities including:

Programming – Helping to establish tournaments and competitions;
Promotion – Creation and distribution of newsletters, Web sites and other marketing tools to advance relevant endeavors;
Fundraising – Application of grants and private funding for a variety of physical endeavors;
Funds Disbursement – Disbursement of funds for facility usage, competition fees, equipment needs or training for at-risk, disadvantaged or otherwise under-funded individuals.

Q. How are GFFT scholarships funded?

A. GFFT scholarships are funded through local fundraisers, GFFT membership dues, donations and grants, with some contributions made by Genesis Health Clubs.

Q. Who is eligible to apply for a GFFT grant?

A. GFFT grants are generally intended for applicants age 8 through 18. In special circumstances, applicants outside of this age range will be considered. In most cases, the applicant or his/her parent or guardian should be a resident of Sedgwick, Butler, Harvey or Reno counties in Kansas.

Q. What is the process for applying?

A. Please fill out the enclosed application and submit in typewritten form according to the stated guidelines. The GFFT Directors will review your application, and in some cases, set up a personal interview.

Q. How often are the applications reviewed?

A. The GFFT Board of Directors will review applications quarterly, with applications due quarterly as follows:

1st Quarter - February 1
2nd Quarter - May 1
3rd Quarter - August 1
4th Quarter - November 1

Q. Where should I send my application?

A. Please ensure delivery by the first day of the deadline month (described above) to:

Genesis Foundation for Fitness & Tennis
Attn: GFFT Grant Administrator
6100 E. Central, #3
Wichita, KS 67208

Q. Are there opportunities to become a member of GFFT or provide monetary support?

A. Yes. GFFT membership is available at various levels for individuals as well as organizations. Membership fees and donations are tax-deductible. In addition to the tax benefit, donors may be recognized in Foundation materials and events, and have the opportunity to work on GFFT committees and special events. Members at the benefactor level and above are eligible for ticket discounts to selected GFFT events and activities. In the event that a donor wishes to remain anonymous, you may contact any GFFT board member. Names of board members and a membership form is available on this site.