June 11th 2024.
For 17 years, an iconic establishment in Atlanta has been dedicated to giving disadvantaged youth the opportunity to thrive and excel through sports. This unwavering mission remains at the core of the organization, as it continues to empower young individuals through the power of play and equip them with essential life skills.
The LEAD Center for Youth is committed to ensuring that its participants not only develop athletic abilities, but also gain valuable life lessons. From showing up for school and for each other, to learning how to prioritize self-care, these young individuals walk away with crucial skills that will serve them well in all aspects of life. According to Atlanta News First, thousands of children have benefited from this program over the span of almost two decades.
CJ Stewart, the founder of the LEAD Center for Youth, shared his vision for the program with the outlet. He explained that the organization uses baseball for boys and tennis for girls to help them overcome challenges such as crime, poverty, and racism. Having experienced personal struggles in his own childhood, Stewart turned to baseball as a positive outlet. This ultimately led him to a successful professional career, and now he is passionate about providing children in his community, who may face similar struggles, with the same opportunities.
Stewart emphasized the importance of healthy coping mechanisms and buffers for stress, especially for children living in underprivileged communities. He believes that sports provide a proven antidote for relieving stress, which is something that many of the young individuals in the program may not have access to otherwise.
The LEAD Center works closely with students in the Atlanta Public School System who come from low-income households. In order to participate in the program, these children must maintain good behavior, grades, and attendance. The organization even goes the extra mile by providing transportation for students to get to and from practice. Along with sports training, the LEAD Center also offers mentorship and academic support, creating a holistic approach to nurturing the youth.
The impact of the LEAD Center on the youth of Atlanta is undeniable and long-lasting. Many alumni of the program have gone on to achieve personal and professional success, and they attribute much of their growth to the skills and support they received at the LEAD Center. This is a testament to the commitment and dedication of the organization to the youth of Atlanta.
In addition, the LEAD Center has a remarkable mentor in Coach Sydney Carter, who embodies the values of substance, style, and success in the world of sports. Her leadership and passion for empowering young athletes have been an inspiration to many. Together, the LEAD Center and Coach Sydney Carter continue to make a positive impact on the lives of young individuals in Atlanta, helping them reach their full potential both on and off the field.
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