MISSION

Youth on the Move in the Community Inc. (YOTM) offers young people between the ages of 6 and 18 years of age, opportunities to engage in physical activity through organized sports with the goal of creating a winning spirit through increased self-confidence, team building and communication. Since the program’s inception, the need in the community for YOTM has grown exponentially and the programs continues to work to:

*Provide a safe environment for its athletic programs

*Provide health and wellness through organized sports

*Foster team building and critical thinking

*Lift the spirit of the community

*Develop the winner within

Background

YOTM was founded in 1991 under the auspices of The Abyssinian Baptist Church (ABC) led by the Reverend Dr. Calvin O. Butts III. The Church has always serviced the needs of the community, especially its youth. It was instrumental in founding the Thurgood Marshall Academies which have successfully graduated over 2,000 students against all odds, as well as providing recreational and cultural activities, homework help, basketball and football, however not at the same time.

YOTM was the natural next step, a haven to bring these supports together under one roof with the goal of better engaging and empowering youth on their educational trajectory from Kindergarten to college and career. The program is the only local and affordable opportunity in Manhattan’s Community Board 10 in Central Harlem where youth can access integrated and comprehensive athletic and academic offerings in a single location that

• Provide a safe playing environment

• Promote health and wellness through organized sports

• Foster team building and critical thinking

• Provide a safe haven against drug and gang violence

• Promote cultural exchange

• Provide homework help and education resources.