Akron offering sports, wellness grants to help curb youth violence; how to apply

AKRON, Ohio – The city of Akron this week announced a new initiative to help curb youth violence in the city.

The city has allocated $100,000 toward a program that offers grants to nonprofits that serve youths. Registered nonprofits can apply for grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 for sports and wellness initiatives.

“We know that sports participation is a fantastic tool to address a range of larger challenges including public safety,” Akron Mayor Shammas Malik said in a news release. “Giving our youth an opportunity to work as a team, learn new skills, develop coping strategies, and see the impact of their hard work and determination can help as a springboard to safe, healthy lives. We’re excited for these grants to help support our local organizations to empower more young people to get involved and stay active.”

Funds can be used to help offset the cost of program fees, mental health services, training and certifications for coaches, safety and equipment. Grants cannot be used for staffing, according to the city.

“Akron has such an incredible legacy around sports and athletics,” Youth Opportunity Strategist Denico Buckley-Knight said in the release. “That legacy is so important as we work to build up a sports and wellness ecosystem that empowers our youth to lead healthy lifestyles. Other cities have seen the benefits of an increased focus on sports, including obesity prevention, cancer risk reduction, gender equity, the social inclusion of people with disabilities and so much more. We’re excited to see the benefits Akron will get from this effort.”

This new initiative follows the city’s recent commitment to get at least 64% of youth to play sports by the end of the decade. The commitment is part of an agreement the city made with the Aspen Institute’s Project Play that aims to allow more youth to develop through sports.

Nonprofit organizations can download a grant application on the city’s website. Completed applications can be emailed to dbuckley-knight@akronohio.gov. Paper copies are available in the City Hall lobby (166 S. High St.) and can be turned in at the security desk.

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