Sound Mind Sound Body (SMSB) runs the Midwest’s largest out-of-school time program (OST). Developmental programming envelops many exercises and encounters outside regular school hours, including mentorship, weekly physical fitness, ongoing volunteer training, academic accountability, and meal access. Over 557 volunteers spent 18,217 hours in August, impacting the lives of approximately 2,667 metro Detroit youth. Through using the sport of cheer and football as a vehicle for success, students spent 83,779 hours in August cultivating learning tools, self-awareness, exposure, and life skills.
“Our number one priority for Sound Mind Sound Body as we continue to meet the needs of our community is to make sure our kids have a safe environment to learn and grow as they develop. We will continue to elevate our out-of-school time programs to ensure our students are engaged in meaningful and fun activities that keep them off the streets,” shared Sound Mind Sound Body’s co-founder, Curtis Blackwell.
Grade Monitoring Program
Our grade monitoring program gives an organized climate of accountability where student-athletes are held to prioritize scholastics throughout the school year. By offering an academic standard, students are better prepared to succeed scholastically. Students are recognized monthly for academic achievements through our social media platforms.
Mentorship Impact
Past scholastics, OST programming contributes to the impact of a youngster’s upbringing and their community. Mentors cultivate a sense of belonging, confidence, joy, discipline, and structure. Mentors also use the team sports atmosphere to build character and create a deeper level of support while fostering relational abilities.
A Sound Mind and Body
OST programming stresses the significance of having a sound mind and sound body. Sports, local and national exposures, and weekly routines promote great well-being and the successful outcome of strategy. These combinations aid in decreasing some health issues among youth by ingraining a deep-rooted obligation to healthy habits in the future.
Volunteer Commitment and Training
SMSB has over 1,000 committed volunteers who serve in various capacities. All volunteers must undergo an extensive background check and complete development training to obtain a certification with an I.D. badge that must be worn during sporting events. Volunteers receive ongoing training through our partnership with The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and the 3D Institute. Volunteers are also recognized monthly.
Closing the Gap Through Commitment
Out-of-school time programming assists with closing the cap of disparities most underserved communities face. By giving access to various impactful programs, OST programs make a more level battleground, guaranteeing that all kids can reach their maximum capacity no matter the statistical disparities.
About Sound Mind Sound Body Youth Association:
Sound Mind Sound Body (SMSB) services over 5,000 students and has over 1,100 volunteers who spend approximately 300 hours annually giving back to Metro Detroit youth. The after-school college readiness program empowers athletes to achieve excellence on and off the field while fostering character, leadership, and overall well-being.
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Jalisa Bannerman