TRI-KIDS, INC. is a non-profit organization providing training, equipment and financial support to kids interested in competing in triathlons. The kids are selected from inner-city neighborhoods and typically do not have these resources available otherwise. The program was developed to expose kids to a sport that requires commitment, dedication and discipline while stressing the importance of training as a team and yet competing as an individual and how to apply that concept in their daily lives. The motto of TRI-KIDS, INC. is "Dream, Believe, Achieve". As long as we can leave each child with that belief, the program is successful.

 

The Need

June 8th, 2010

 

  • Over $2 billion was cut from sports programs in public schools in 2008.
  • Youth often are required to pay money to play school sports or other extra curricular activities, as a result, low-income youth can’t participate and are left with lots of idle time…time to get into trouble!
  • According to the 2000 census, only 3% of youth in low-income areas play organized sports.
  • One third of the nation’s children will be overweight or obese by third grade. Low-income areas have an even higher risk.
  • Thirty percent of youth won’t graduate from high school. For inner-city communities, only half with earn the diploma.
  • Today, more than 750,000 youth are involved in gang activity.

Youth who play sports…
Are more likely to stay active as adults.
Have a better chance of graduating high school,
Are less likely to abuse drugs and alcohol, or become pregnant
Have increased personal responsibility,
Are less likely to engage in criminal activity

Out-of-school time, can be either an opportunity for youth to engage in positive activities that enhance their development, or a time to involve themselves in negative activities. Out-of-school youth development programs support the healthy growth and development of young people by providing engrossing learning opportunities that emphasize life skills.