Press: Baltimore Banner: Commentary: Why community-based youth sports matter in Baltimore and beyond
Jon Solomon, published on 5/15/2024 in the Baltimore Banner
“The Aspen Institute’s Project Play Summit is currently in Baltimore as part of our national effort to find solutions for more children to access quality sports opportunities. Baltimore was home to our first community State of Play report in 2017 that assessed the barriers and opportunities Baltimore uniquely faces. In the years since, local organizations and leaders have taken significant steps in Baltimore to improve sports access for children.”
“Baltimore SquashWise is turning an abandoned building into a play hub. Unmatched Athlete allows LGBTQ+ youth and allies to play sports together. Beat the Streets-Baltimore serves youths with wrestling and individualized academic support. Leveling the Playing Field has distributed $4.8 million worth of donated sports equipment to the greater Baltimore community.
The list of organizations helping kids access sports in Baltimore goes on. While operating independently, they share a common belief: Sports should be a fundamental right for all children, regardless of race, income, gender or ability.”
