Sound Mind Sound Body Youth Association (SMSBYA) partnered with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and 3D Institute to provide world-class comprehensive development training to over 1,100 volunteers. The ‘Goodness over Greatness’ training sessions occurred on July 17 and July 31 at St. John Armenian Church in Southfield.
Volunteering is a profound way to enrich communities by expanding their resources, knowledge, and experiences. To ensure volunteers are equipped with the necessary skills to make a significant impact on and off the field, volunteer training is indispensable.
Expert guest speakers Glynn Blackwell, former professional basketball player and the FCA Metro Detroit Director of SE MI, and Mitch Hull, former National Teams Director for USA Wrestling and the Dir. of Professional Development for the 3D Institute, led the transformative training. Volunteers learned the importance of considering strategies to empower and identifying the impactful correlation of the why behind volunteering.
Ricky Meredith, the Eastside Raiders 7U coach, shared his purpose in volunteering, “To make a change in youth athletes that can bring out the best in character and discipline.”
Brief Q & A exercises helped volunteers reflect on their experiences as former recipients of volunteers in the community. “Volunteering isn’t hard or easy; it is intentional,” stated Mitch Hull during his presentation. For many, choosing to volunteer was associated with impacts made by mentors during years of adolescence.
Team Mom for the Detroit City Lions, Atikah Johnson, shared, “I volunteer to support and uplift young people.” Reflecting on impactful coaches, she mentioned, “My favorite coach was Coach Hobart. He always ensured we understood the game and why each team member was important.”
The volunteer training empowered participants to continue on the road to making a positive difference in the lives of inner-city youth. Volunteers are now well-equipped with a deeper understanding and strategy for serving the future of tomorrow with impact and purpose.
Tim Morton, FCA Multi-Area Director, SE MI, gave closing remarks before Pastor Ronald Hopkins, III of The Life Center Church, closed the session with prayer. Volunteers departed with access to weekly coaching strategies, prayer, and guides through an online network with FCA Staff.
Sound Mind Sound Body will hold its last training session for the season Monday, September 18.
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
