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Author: Briana Mitchell

  • Creating Equal Play: Fostering Inclusion in Youth Sports

    Creating Equal Play: Fostering Inclusion in Youth Sports

    Fostering inclusion in youth sports is crucial for creating equitable opportunities for all children, regardless of their abilities. In Southeast Michigan, Kids On the Go stands out as a Project Play grantee partner dedicated to this mission. Their programs focus on recognizing and facilitating the goals of children with special needs through therapeutic and wellness activities. By offering tailored support and creating an inclusive environment, Kids On the Go ensures that every child can participate, thrive, and build connections through sports.

    Creating spaces where children of all abilities can be active and enjoy camaraderie is essential for fostering a sense of belonging and community. Kids On the Go not only helps children develop their skills but also promotes the joy of participation and the value of teamwork. By breaking down barriers and providing adaptive programs, they make sports accessible to everyone, reinforcing the idea that every child deserves the chance to experience the benefits of physical activity and social interaction.

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    Briana Mitchell

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  • Building Tomorrow’s Leaders: Enhancing Leadership Skills with Sports

    Building Tomorrow’s Leaders: Enhancing Leadership Skills with Sports

    Enhancing leadership skills through sports is a powerful way to prepare youth for future success, both on and off the field. In Southeast Michigan, Project Play grantee partners like Peace Players Detroit, Racquet Up Detroit, and Detroit Horse Power are committed to this mission. These organizations use sports as a platform to teach essential leadership qualities such as teamwork, responsibility, and resilience. By fostering these skills, they empower young people to become confident, capable leaders in their communities.

    Investing in youth leadership goes beyond physical training; it’s about mentorship and empowerment. Programs like those offered by our grantee partners, provide young athletes with role models who guide them in making positive choices and overcoming challenges. Peace Players Detroit, Racquet Up Detroit, and Detroit Horse Power focus on ensuring that all youth, regardless of their background, have access to these opportunities. Together, these organizations are shaping a generation of leaders who are ready to make a difference both in the game and in their lives.

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    Briana Mitchell

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  • Empowering the Next Generation: The Impact of Sports on Young Girls

    Empowering the Next Generation: The Impact of Sports on Young Girls

    Empowering young girls through sports is essential for fostering leadership, confidence, and resilience. In Southeast Michigan, Project Play grantee partners like Figure Skating Detroit and Detroit United Lacrosse are at the forefront of this mission. These organizations provide girls with the opportunity to not only excel in their chosen sports but also to develop critical life skills that will serve them well beyond the field or ice rink. By creating supportive, inclusive environments, these programs help girls build self-confidence, teamwork, and a strong sense of identity.

    The impact of sports on young girls extends far beyond physical fitness. Through the guidance and mentorship offered by Figure Skating Detroit and Detroit United Lacrosse, girls learn to overcome challenges, set and achieve goals, and develop leadership qualities that will empower them throughout their lives. These programs are not just about creating athletes; they are about shaping future leaders who are confident in their abilities and ready to take on the world.

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    Briana Mitchell

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  • Breaking Barriers: Increasing Access to Sports for Youth

    Breaking Barriers: Increasing Access to Sports for Youth

    Access to sports and free play is a crucial component of a child’s development, yet many youth in Southeast Michigan face significant barriers to participation. Organizations like Detroit PAL, Oakland County Sheriff PAL, and Breaking Barriers to Play are leading the charge to ensure that all children, regardless of income, zip code, or socio-economic status, have the opportunity to engage in safe, equitable, and affordable sports programs. By removing systemic barriers, these Project Play grantee partners are not only fostering physical health but also building community, enhancing leadership skills, and providing a sense of belonging for countless young people.

    Our partner organizations understand that every child deserves the chance to play and thrive. Detroit PAL and Oakland County Sheriff PAL work tirelessly to create inclusive environments where kids can develop their athletic abilities and personal growth. In Macomb, Breaking Barriers to Play focuses on eliminating the obstacles that prevent children from accessing these vital programs. Together, these organizations are making a lasting impact, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience the joy and benefits of sports.

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    Briana Mitchell

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