DC

In D.C., where 68,619 children (54%) grapple with financial hardship, Winners Lacrosse steps in to provide free positive youth development through the game of lacrosse, and programming, fostering resilience and strengthening our communities. “ALICE Report 2019

Winners Lacrosse is at the heart of Washington, D.C., where we’re making a difference in the lives of 500+ local youth. Our program isn’t just about lacrosse; it’s about guiding these young individuals towards self-awareness, self-control, and essential interpersonal skills that will serve them well in school, work, and life. We believe that a supportive community and caring adult role models can help these kids navigate the challenges they face.

Through lacrosse, we teach vital life skills like teamwork, discipline, and resilience. But it doesn’t stop there. Character development is a priority, as we nurture traits that are crucial for lifelong success. Community involvement creates a sense of belonging, and our safe and supportive environment ensures that our kids thrive. We provide mentorship, sports training, character development, community engagement, and a nurturing setting to make a real and lasting impact. Our goal is to reduce social isolation, enhance well-being, and measure success through surveys and mentorship evaluations.

Social-Emotional Learning for a Brighter Future

In urban communities, where challenges are plenty, social-emotional learning is not just an educational concept; it’s essential. Winners Lacrosse understands the importance of instilling values, self-worth, and future goals in children and adolescents. Our program goes beyond the field, helping kids value their education, their futures, themselves, and each other. We equip them with the skills to interpret, process, and express stress and negative emotions in productive ways, enabling them to make better decisions for their future. With social-emotional learning, we’re building a foundation for success and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.

ALICE, an acronym for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, signifies the increasing number of families unable to afford essentials like housing, childcare, food, transportation, healthcare, and technology, all while playing a crucial role in sustaining our local communities.

Ages: Boys & Girls ages 5-14

Equipment: Provided

Cost: Free

Program Sites: The Fields at RFK | Palisades Community Center | Shepard Park  | Brentwood Recreation Center | North Michigan Park | Ferebee Hope Recreation Center

Director of Operations: Zhané Ruffin

Please contact Zhané Ruffin if you have any questions!