Youth Challenge receives $30,000 grant
The KidsCents Regional Grant program awarded Youth Challenge (YC) with $30,000. The grant will help fund the free adapted sports and recreational programs that YC provides for young people with physical disabilities.
"We are thankful to receive a KidCents Regional Grant," said Chris Garr, CEO. "The Rite Aid Foundation's support helps us to continue improving the lives of young people in Northeast Ohio."
Youth Challenge modifies activities so that children ages 4-25 with such disabilities as spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, and cerebral palsy can fully participate. Golf, basketball, swimming, dance, ceramics, and many other programs are offered each year. Competitive team sports like soccer, powerlifting, boccia, and goalball are available as well. All activities and transportation are free for the families of children with disabilities.
YC uses a model for service that not only promotes healthy exercise through sports but also emphasizes the importance of peer interaction among young people of all abilities. At each activity, the children are paired one-on-one with teen volunteers. The partners work together to complete each game or project, with the teen volunteer helping to adapt the activity for their partner's abilities.
The KidCents Regional Grant Program, which provides grants of $15,000-$30,000, funds specific out-of-school time programs focused on children's nutrition, physical fitness and academic success.
To learn more about Youth Challenge, visit youthchallengesports.com or call 440-892-1001.
Kathy Rigdon
is the Media Specialist for Youth Challenge in Westlake.