~ Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and the Human Services Cabinet have announced the opening of applications for the Community Sports Grant, a program that will provide $300,000 in funding to support volunteer-led youth sports organizations. The grant is aimed at providing high-quality and engaging athletics programming for Boston youth between the ages of 8 and 18.

The main goal of this grant is to increase the variety of youth sports programming in the city and provide a positive outlet for young people when they are not in school. Applications for the grant will be open until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, September 13, 2024.

Mayor Wu's Connect, Learn, Explore program is aligned with this initiative as it aims to empower Boston's youth by ensuring that every child has access to opportunities to explore and find their passions. In a statement, Mayor Wu said, "Part of our responsibility for keeping Boston's young people healthy and happy is ensuring each of them has access to enriching experiences outside of the classroom."

Neighborhood sports leagues play a crucial role in introducing young athletes to sports. As the foundation of youth sports programming in Boston, these volunteer-led organizations involve a diverse range of young people in their community. They provide opportunities for them to stay active, bond with friends, and develop character.

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Chief of Human Services José F. Massó expressed excitement about continuing their partnership with neighborhood-based sports organizations. He said, "As a youth basketball coach, I know these programs are a labor of love for the many volunteers that keep them going and I'm glad that we're able to offer this infusion of resources to make their work easier."

The Human Services Cabinet will distribute grants of up to $10,000 to support increasing access to sports opportunities for Boston youth. The funds can be used towards reducing registration fees, purchasing new equipment or uniforms, or covering rental space costs. The grant funding will support fall, winter, and spring sports and must be used by June 30, 2025.

David Shapiro, CEO of YMCA of Greater Boston, emphasized the importance of providing easier access to quality youth sports experiences. He said, "Access to quality youth sports experiences that eliminate barriers to participation is critical for the health and wellness of our young people. It offers them the opportunity for meaningful relationships, development, discovery, teamwork, and joy."

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The Community Sports Grant is a part of Mayor Wu's Connect, Learn, Explore initiative which aims to ensure that Boston's youth are empowered to find and pursue their passions. In May, the Mayor launched the Boston Youth Sports Hub website which serves as a one-stop directory for families looking for neighborhood sports leagues and city-run programs. The website also features stories of athletic achievements by Boston youth sports teams.

In addition to providing grant support to youth sports providers, the Youth Sports Initiative also aims to increase participation among historically underrepresented groups in youth sports, improve coaching quality in the city, and enhance the variety and quality of sports offered by city departments.

With this grant program and other initiatives in place, Mayor Wu and the Human Services Cabinet are committed to providing opportunities for Boston's youth to stay active and engaged outside of school hours. Applications for the Community Sports Grant are now open and interested organizations have until September 13th to apply.

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