Driven Hearts Charity Launches to Turn Recycled Tires Into Playgrounds and Athletic Surfaces
New 501(c)(3) debuts Beyond the Tread Conference and Fishing Tournament to fund the use of reclaimed tires for projects in underserved communities
FORT MYERS, Fla., January 12, 2026 — Driven Hearts Charity, a newly formed 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, today announced its official launch alongside its flagship fundraising event, the Beyond the Tread Conference and Fishing Tournament, with a focused mission: transforming recycled tires into safe, durable playgrounds and athletic surfaces for communities in need.
Driven Hearts Charity made the announcement at a ribbon cutting ceremony at Tropic Star Lodge in Piñas Bay, Panama, where they will build their first project, a soccer pitch for the Piñas Bay community.
“Our goal is tangible impact,” said Rick Goodwin, Founder of Driven Hearts Charity. “Every playground or athletic surface we build represents thousands of tires redirected into something that helps kids become athletes, communities stay active, and sponsors see real results from their support.”
Each year, more than 300 million scrap tires are generated in the United States. While many are recycled, millions remain underutilized despite the fact that reclaimed rubber can be engineered into long-lasting, shock-absorbing surfaces ideal for playgrounds, sports courts, and athletic fields. Rubber surfaces made from recycled tires can last two to three times longer than traditional materials, reducing long-term maintenance costs for schools and municipalities.
Driven Hearts Charity was founded to bridge the gap between tire recycling and community infrastructure by funding projects that convert end-of-life tires into high-impact recreational spaces. Proceeds from the Beyond the Tread Conference and Fishing Tournament directly support the construction of playgrounds and athletic surfaces using reclaimed rubber, with multiple projects slated for 2026 in the United States.
The Beyond the Tread Conference and Fishing Tournament brings together leaders from tire recycling, construction, sports, and community development to highlight proven applications for reclaimed rubber, while the charity fishing tournament provides an engaging fundraising platform for sponsors and participants.
Driven Hearts Charity is currently seeking sponsors, partners, and community collaborators for its inaugural projects. More information about the organization and upcoming events is available at https://drivenheartscharity.com/.