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Roanoke’s Champions of Change Program Offers Youth a Safe haven Through Boxing
ROANOKE, Va. – A new initiative, the Champions of Change Boxing Program, has officially opened it’s doors in Roanoke, providing a crucial sanctuary for young individuals seeking positive engagement and an outlet for thier energy.
A Space to Thrive, Not Just Train
Launched by the Roanoke Police Department’s RESET Team on July 31, the program stems from a long-held vision to create a secure habitat where youth and young adults can channel their physical and emotional energy constructively. The initiative’s journey began years ago, sparked by conversations with local boxing coaches who recognized the need for such a dedicated space.
Initially, the program operated out of the YMCA, utilizing their facilities one night a week. This grassroots effort, driven by community need, eventually evolved into the establishment of its own dedicated training space.
Beyond the Gym: Steering Youth Away from Peril
For many participants, the Champions of Change program serves as a critical escape from challenging environments and potential dangers prevalent in the city. It aims to divert young people from involvement in gang-related activities or othre detrimental behaviors.
“We help kids to stay out of bad situations, getting to gang related stuff or doing bad things in the street,” shared program participant Keith Moore. “So if you have an activity to do, keep your mind in the right place.People in the gym will give you the right advice, what to do, just lead you down the right path.”
The mentors involved understand firsthand the pressures many of the young people face outside the boxing ring. Their guiding presence aims to steer them away from violence and negative influences.
Mentor everett Sawin commented, “It looks like with all the gun violence in Roanoke City, we need an answer, and all people can do is one kid at a time.All I can do is what’s around me.” He added, “I don’t have some big solution, but I know if you go out there and you help all that you have the influence over, and you can do everything in your power to help it, I think we’ll all be in a better position.”
Building Bridges: Mentorship as a Foundation
The role of the mentors extends far beyond technical training; they often become important father figures in the lives of the participants.
“They’re like a father figure in some sort of way, teaching me what to do right, what not to do. Another father figure in my life, and I really appreciate that,” Moore expressed, highlighting the profound personal impact of the program.
“We try to be a family here. A lot of these kids, they just need people to talk to,” a mentor explained. “A lot of them, they’re on their phones all the time, they got nobody to talk to, or they got problems going on, they don’t want to share with anybody.”
Future Aspirations: Expanding the Reach
The opening marks a significant milestone, but RESET Coordinator Lloyd Merchant envisions further growth for the program. Expansion plans include perhaps offering sessions on weekends or Saturdays.
“We’re hoping to grow so we can open up more, to include maybe the weekend or Saturday, as we want to invite those individuals that might potentially be out here challenged with risk factors that they deal with on a daily, weekly basis, and we want them to come here to a safe space,” Merchant stated.
This expansion aims to reach an even broader group of young people facing daily challenges, offering them a consistent safe haven.
Key Program Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Champions of Change Boxing Program |
| Initiating Body | Roanoke Police Department’s RESET Team |
| Primary Goal | Provide a safe space for youth engagement and positive energy release |
| Key Focus | Mentorship,physical activity,and diversion from negative influences |
| Future Plans | Program expansion to include weekend/Saturday sessions |
The Enduring Impact of Community Sports Programs
The success of initiatives like the Champions of Change Boxing Program underscores a broader trend: the vital role of community-based sports in youth advancement. Beyond physical fitness, these programs cultivate discipline, resilience, and a sense of belonging. Research consistently shows that structured extracurricular activities can substantially reduce the likelihood of youth engaging in risky behaviors. As a notable example, a 2023 report by the National council on Youth Development highlighted that adolescents participating in sports programs demonstrated higher levels of self-esteem and better academic performance compared to their non-participating peers. These programs also foster essential social skills, teaching teamwork and healthy competition.Mentorship, a cornerstone of the Roanoke program, is notably impactful, providing young people with positive role models who offer guidance and support, often filling critical gaps in their social support networks. Organizations dedicated to youth sports, like Youth Sports, emphasize the long-term benefits, including improved mental health and a stronger sense of community duty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Youth Boxing Programs
- What is the main goal of the Champions of Change Boxing Program?
- The main goal of the Champions of Change Boxing Program is to provide youth and young adults with a safe space to engage in physical activity and receive positive mentorship.
- How does boxing help youth stay out of trouble?
- Boxing programs like Champions of Change offer a constructive outlet for energy, teach discipline, and provide positive role models, helping youth avoid negative influences and risky behaviors.
- What kind of support can participants expect at the boxing program?
- Participants can expect guidance from mentors who act as positive role models, offering advice and support in a family-like environment.
- What are the long-term benefits of youth boxing programs?
- Long-term benefits include improved physical health, enhanced self-esteem, better discipline, and a stronger sense of community.
- How can community sports programs benefit young people in Roanoke?
- Community sports programs in Roanoke, such as the Champions of Change Boxing Program, provide a safe space, promote healthy lifestyles, build character, and offer crucial mentorship opportunities.
What are your thoughts on the importance of safe spaces for young people in our communities? share your experiences and opinions in the comments below!
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