Our Story

Born From Purpose.

Dart Wars Charity grew out of a simple belief: the most powerful thing you can give a child isn't a thing at all — it's a feeling. A feeling of belonging, of being celebrated, of having a chance.

How It Started

A Nerf Arena With a Bigger Mission

Dart Wars started as Colorado Springs' premier indoor Nerf battle arena — a place where families could come together, compete, and create memories. But as we grew, we started asking a bigger question: who isn't in the room?

Foster youth and their families were often left out of experiences most families take for granted — birthday parties, fun outings, job opportunities. We had the space, the energy, and the community. We had the ability to change that.

So we created Dart Wars Charity — a nonprofit arm dedicated to serving Colorado Springs' foster community. Because every kid deserves to have a BLAST.

Dart Wars arena — where the fun happens
Dart Wars team — teens employed as referees
Employment Program

Real Jobs. Real Futures.

These are real Dart Wars employees — many of them teens who came through the foster care system. They wear the stripes, run the games, and earn a paycheck that goes toward building their independence.

Our employment program isn't just a job — it's mentorship, responsibility, and a first step toward a life they own. We're proud of every one of them.

What We Do

Our Four Pillars

💼

Employment for Foster Teens

We partner with the foster care system to give teens real, paid jobs at Dart Wars. Many foster teens age out of the system without job experience or references — we change that. Working alongside our team, they gain skills, confidence, and a genuine shot at independence.

🏟️

A Safe Place to Gather

Foster families often struggle to find affordable, welcoming spaces to gather and bond. Dart Wars Charity opens our arena as a safe, energetic venue where foster families can come as a group, play together, and feel like they belong.

🎂

Free Birthday Parties

For too many children in foster care, birthdays pass without celebration. We don't think that's okay. That's why we host completely FREE birthday parties for foster kids — because every single child deserves to feel celebrated and loved on their special day.

🎁

Fundraisers & Toy Drives

Throughout the year, we organize fundraisers and toy drives in partnership with the community. Proceeds and donations go directly to foster families who need support — from holiday gifts to everyday essentials.

Kids at Dart Wars
Girls group at Dart Wars Colorado Springs
Girls with Nerf guns
Group of kids at Dart Wars
What Drives Us

Our Values

Community

We believe it takes a whole community to support our most vulnerable kids. Everything we do is rooted in bringing people together.

Inclusion

Foster youth and families are welcome here — no exceptions, no asterisks. This is their space as much as anyone's.

Fun

We use the power of play to break down barriers, build bonds, and remind every kid that childhood is worth celebrating.

Opportunity

We open doors. Whether it's a first job or a first birthday party, we believe every child deserves a real shot.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Join us in building a stronger future for foster youth and families in Colorado Springs.