The Kansas City Royals’ 2015 World Series win was quickly followed by the announcement of plans for an Urban Youth Academy in Kansas City. The academy is part of Major League Baseball’s initiative to provide baseball and softball programs in underserved communities across the US. Donease Smith, Executive Director of Administration for the Kansas City Urban Youth Academy, stated that the goal is to use sports as a gateway to provide essential resources and support for youth in the community.
Since its establishment in 2018, the academy has served around 60 thousand individuals, catering to kids aged five to 18. The programs offered by the Kansas City MLB Urban Youth Academy, a signature initiative of The Kansas City Royals Foundation, are free of cost and extend beyond the baseball diamond. Additional services include financial readiness, college preparedness, and FAFSA training.
The academy’s commitment to community impact is evident through its various offerings, aiming to empower youth to become leaders of tomorrow. The upcoming Urban Youth Academy’s Fall Bash on October 12 will feature food trucks, games, vaccinations, and more. Smith emphasized that participating in the academy allows kids to take pride in their community and gain unique experiences that may not be accessible elsewhere. Overall, the Urban Youth Academy serves as a valuable resource for youth in the Kansas City area, fostering personal growth and community engagement.
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