The HEADS UP YOUTH FOUNDATION began as a vision by its founder,    Rob Fukuzaki, who also serves as the chairman and president. As the local sports anchor for ABC7, he covered the sports scene ranging from the pros to budding athletes at various sports organizations and local schools. It was at this level that he encountered kids who could not participate in any youth programs because of life's dis- advantages. He found it disheartening because as a youngster, Rob grew up participating in various youth sports organizations. He strongly feels that the strong family values instilled by his devoted parents and the positive development he experienced as a participant helped him gain the confidence needed to achieve and sustain his goals. Rob was so touched by the difference that experience had made in his life that he vowed to someday form an organization that would provide funding services to children who are not as lucky. The image of disadvantaged youngsters unable to participate in youth activities became his crusade to form the foundation, one that can reach out and give a helping hand so that these youngsters can keep their ”heads up” and steer them away from trouble. So, along with many sponsors, friends and relatives helping along the way,  what began as a vision is now celebrating its 12th Anniversary.

What We Do: We provide funds to deserving youth organizations that provide a positive building block to the children in Southern California area.

Our main arm of funding is through an annual golf tournament, which provide the bulk of the funds.

Net proceeds in 2009 have benefited the following organizations:

• Dodgers Dream Foundation
• Rising Stars Foundation – In support of Department of Family and Children Services – Celebration One
• Angels Baseball Foundation
• Lakers Youth Foundation
• Clippers Basketball Foundation 
• Various other community sports     organizations

In addition, each year, four or five high school seniors in the L.A. County foster care system receive scholarships from the Heads Up Youth Foundation to attend the colleges of their choice.

The combined efforts of these organizations along with the Foundation's contributions have assisted over 5,000 children attend various camps, events, and enter mentoring programs that otherwise would be out of their reach.