As both Kevin and I have talked about many times before, sports can have a tremendously positive effect on kids, especially those who are seeking a supportive community, and this article from the New York Times is just one more example of that.
Former Philadelphia Eagles pro football player Roynell Young started an after-school program, charter school, and job training program that specifically targets at-risk youth in Houston called Pro-Vision. The program, which has grown exponentially since its beginning in 1990, is scheduled to move from the schoolhouse where it resides now to a 16-acre campus--which includes an NFL sponsored football field--within the next few weeks, although that date may be delayed by complications with Hurricane Ike, says the article.
The story gives an inspiring look into Young’s life and the powerful effect that he’s had on youth since the end of his football career. It’s refreshing to see how Young has used his celebrity status as a pro-football player to give back to his community and inspire kids who are, like he was when he was growing up, searching for a role model. It’s a great story and definitely worth the read.