Another $100,000 in sports and wellness grants for 50 organizations will be distributed in Akron amid efforts to prevent youth violence.
While a $2,000 grant might not seem like much, community organizations say they can make that money go a long way.
Jamar Blackmon, executive director of GOALGETTA Academy, said these smaller grants are important for helping with daily operations for his staff.
“So when we go to our next meeting, I can tell them that because we worked hard and we’re passionate about this work, you guys are the reason that we got this new award, this sports and wellness grant,” he said.
GOALGETTA Academy also received one of the grants last year, which helped provide homecooked meals at meetings and supported their annual career day event.
The second annual Sports and Wellness grants are part of Akron Mayor Shammas Malik and Akron City Council’s broader efforts to support youth violence prevention in the city.
Malik called the 50 organizations’ work a necessity.
“You’re doing it on small budgets, you’re doing it in most cases as volunteers, and our community is so much better because of the work that you do,” he said.
Each of the organizations has a focus on after-school programs, mentorship and life skills programs, street outreach and violence intervention and prevention.
“Every young person in Akron deserves opportunities to explore their interests, build meaningful connections and discover what they’re capable of,” Malik said. “We have so many dedicated organizations across our city creating those opportunities every day, whether through sports, mentorship, after-school activities or other programs. These grants are one way we can support their work and help more young people access experiences that enrich their lives and set them up for success.”
Source: www.ideastream.org
