#United States #DICK'S Sporting Goods #Various #LISC #Game On Initiative

DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation's Commitment to Community Sports

In a significant move to boost community engagement and sports participation, the DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation, in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), has awarded $1.7 million in grants aimed at upgrading sports facilities across 20 cities and towns in the United States. This initiative, known as the Game On-Community Places to Play Initiative, focuses on enhancing under-resourced sporting spaces that are critical for youth engagement and community development.

Background of the Initiative

The Game On Initiative represents a collaborative effort to address the disparities in access to quality sports facilities in low-income areas. The current round of grants follows a competitive application process, in which community organizations were required to secure matching funds, underscoring the ongoing commitment to foster local partnerships and shared responsibility in community enhancement efforts. Grants awarded range from $50,000 to $100,000, providing vital resources to those organizations that are actively leading renovation projects and youth programming.

Rick Jordan, vice president of The DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, "We are thrilled these communities will be able to offer revitalized sports spaces to deserving athletes across the country. We are proud of this partnership and believe that the rejuvenation of sports facilities is not just an investment in infrastructure, but an investment in the future of youth athletes."

On the other hand, Michael T. Pugh, president and CEO of LISC, emphasized the comprehensive nature of community development. He stated, "So much about the work of community development is connecting all the things that residents need to build a good quality of life, from housing to jobs to schools to health. That's why supporting recreational space is a key LISC priority and why partners like The DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation are so important."

Specific Projects Funded

The awarded grants will be used to address a variety of renovation needs across various facilities that serve youth sports. Here are a few highlighted projects:

• - Fort Smith Boys & Girls Clubs (Fort Smith, AR): Installation of HVAC units and new basketball goals in several gym locations.
• - East Oakland Youth Development Center (Oakland, CA): Revamping the wellness wing which includes upgrades to a basketball court and a dance studio.
• - San Diego Parks Foundation (San Diego, CA): Resurfacing outdoor sports courts and enhancing lighting at the Southcrest Recreation Center.
• - United States Association of Blind Athletes (Colorado Springs, CO): Transforming an unused football field into a dedicated facility for visually impaired athletes.
• - Soccer in the Streets (Atlanta, GA): Construction of two mini soccer fields with all necessary amenities like fencing and lighting.
• - YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh, PA): Renovation of the gym and sports court at a historic YMCA facility.

These projects exemplify the foundation’s approach to not just restore infrastructure but promote healthy habits and teamwork among youth.

Looking Ahead

The collaboration between DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation and LISC not only enhances recreational spaces but also nurtures a sense of community and belonging among youth. Beverly Smith, LISC vice president, remarked, "Sports and recreation teach young people about teamwork and community, all while nurturing healthy bodies and minds." Through targeted investments, this initiative aims to foster environments where families can gather, play, and develop vital life skills.

The DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation is committed to inspiring and enabling sports participation, recognizing the profound impact that sports can have on individual lives. Its work continues to be instrumental in closing the gap in resources available to underserved communities across the United States, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for youth athletes.

For more information on the funded projects and ongoing initiatives, you can visit DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation and LISC's website.