Addressing Endemic Community Issues
Community Need
A 2015 report conducted by the Office of the New York City Comptroller, concluded that over 28% of New York City public schools did not have a physical fitness space during School Year 2013-2014. In addition, the report–citing data from the New York City Department of Education (DOE)–revealed that over 23% of students enrolled in public elementary and middle schools in DOE District 6 (Washington Heights, Inwood, and parts of Morningside) were obese, ranking #1 in NYC.
Similarly, data from the NYC Department of Education show that 47 percent of kids living in Washington Heights and Inwood are overweight or obese.
NYC Public Schools Without Physical Fitness Spaces
Source: “Dropping the Ball: Disparities in Physical Education in New York City Schools“, Office of the New York City Comptroller, May 2015.
Developing multi-faceted Student Athletes
Academy Overview
The Academy is built on three pillars: development, mentorship, and community. It’s a holistic framework that develops the whole of our student-athletes, not just their game. We aim to provide an impact that transcends the basketball court.
Development
We focus on the holistic development of our student-athletes. In addition to the fundamentals of the sport, we teach our youth injury prevention, recovery, and deepen their knowledge and analysis of the game.
Mentorship
Our seasoned trainers and team members are devoted to developing responsible well-rounded student-athletes. Our team is invested in their success and leadership both on and off the court.
Community
UPLIFT NYC holds leadership development and service as integral to a healthy community. Student-athletes have a responsibility to shape and serve the community around them. Our participants engage in community service projects, lead and organize events of their interest and gain the leadership skills key to their growth and success.
When I come here I am happy and learn skills every day.
Participant
They learn consistency, responsibility, to be a team player and a leader.
Parent
Giving back to the community and passing on the knowledge learned playing professional basketball is always a good feeling.