About Us

---

At YVITS (Youth Violence Intervention through Sports), our organization is dedicated to using the power of youth sports as a catalyst for positive change in communities affected by violence. We believe that by combining mentoring and sports, we can provide young individuals with the guidance, support, and opportunities they need to overcome challenges and break the cycle of violence.

Our primary objective is to engage at-risk youth and provide them with a safe and nurturing environment where they can develop essential life skills, build resilience, and learn valuable lessons both on and off the field. We understand that many young individuals face significant barriers due to the presence of violence in their communities, and we aim to create a positive and empowering space where they can thrive. Through our sports programs, we pair experienced coaches/outreach workers with youth participants who may have been exposed to or involved in violence. Our mentors serve as positive role models, providing guidance, support, and encouragement as they navigate various aspects of their lives. They focus on building trust, fostering healthy relationships, and instilling core values such as respect, teamwork, and discipline.

 Youth sports play a central role in our approach. We offer a range of athletic programs, including basketball, soccer, baseball, and more. Through these sports, participants not only develop physical fitness but also learn important life lessons such as sportsmanship, leadership, and goal setting. Sports serve as a platform to teach conflict resolution, problem-solving skills, and constructive ways to channel energy and emotions.

In addition to sports training, our programs incorporate educational components that address critical topics such as violence prevention, conflict resolution, and personal development. We provide workshops facilitated by experts in relevant fields, enabling participants to gain knowledge and develop the necessary skills to make positive choices. Collaboration is essential to our work. We actively partner with other community violence interrupter organizations, and local law enforcement agencies to create a comprehensive support network for the youth we serve. By working together, we can leverage resources, share expertise, and create a unified approach to addressing the complex issue of violence in our communities.

We measure our success not only by the improvement in sports performance but also by the positive transformation we witness in the lives of our participants. By fostering resilience, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging, we aim to equip youth with the tools they need to navigate challenges, resist violence, and become agents of change in their communities.

At YVITS, we believe that every young individual has the potential to rise above their circumstances and achieve greatness. Through our programs, we strive to empower youth, break the cycle of violence, and create a future filled with hope, opportunity, and success.