LOS ANGELES (NNPA) - Opportunity is a word that is synonymous with improving quality of life, creating systems of change, and effectuating positive outcomes in marginalized communities. Politicians, civic leaders, and the faith-based community all agree that such changes must begin with more and better opportunities.
On Sunday, July 19, Bank of America, the official bank of the Los Angeles Dodgers, created opportunity for 200 Brotherhood Crusade Youth Development Program participants and their families at the Los Angeles Dodgers Sunday matinee and provided 50 of these youth with the chance to run the bases at the conclusion of the game.
"This was the best thing I ever did in my life'' shared one youth.
"I don't know how to thank you, this means so much to me and my family," replied a parent.
"Yesterday's basketball clinic was awesome, but this was even better," stated another youth.
"This is the purpose of our Youth Development Programs," said Charisse Bremond Weaver, President and CEO of the Brotherhood Crusade. "Our goal is to give our youth an opportunity to succeed academically, emotionally, socially, mentally, and physically. We seek to achieve this by offering well-coordinated, comprehensive programming that engages and improves quality of life for the youth, their parents or caregivers, and their families. One of the reasons we appreciate Ms. Gina Adams and the Bank of America family is because they understand the power of opportunity and use both their financial and personnel resources to provide such opportunities to our youth and their families."
In addition to enjoying an incredible afternoon watching the Dodgers come from behind to claim victory, and literally following in their footsteps by running the bases, the youth and their families were joined by NBA legends Brian Taylor (Nets, Clippers) and Eric Money (Nets, Pistons), NBA Referee Derek Richardson and former Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Ron Brown (Olympic Gold Medalist, NFL's Fastest Man) as well as the highly competent Brotherhood Crusade GRYD and Mentor & Me Program staff.
"Brotherhood Crusade is internally grateful to Bank of America for making so many dreams come true for our youth and their families," said Bremond. I would also like to acknowledge and thank the City of Los Angeles GRYD Office, Governor's Office of Emergency Services CalGRIP, US Department of Education Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools, and Why Can't We Make A Difference Foundation, whose generosity and support made it possible for our youth and their families to take advantage of this opportunity.
The Brotherhood Crusade is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit institution founded in 1968 to provide necessary resources, program services and a voice of advocacy to traditionally underserved communities. Our mission is to remove and/or help individuals overcome the barriers that deter their pursuit of success and facilitate opportunities for a better quality of life, by promoting health and wellness, enhancing educational opportunities, cultivating economic growth and building community agencies and institutions.
For more information about the Brotherhood Crusade, its programs, activities and supported agencies visit their website: www.brotherhoodcrusade.org.