Go Get Them and They Will Come

About the Program

Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)

Year: 2009

Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department established a goal to increase participation of at-risk minority youth in various programs as a possible deterrent to crime and gang membership. Their efforts were designed to expose youth to the non-traditional sports such as track and field, golf, swimming, and tennis. They used free instruction and scholarship funds to provide special transportation wherever practical to eliminate cost and geographic barriers and to facilitate greater participation. Over 3,000 youths have participated in the program, sparking their interest in sports that offer ample opportunities to excel and potentially earn collegiate scholarships.