The James R. Leonard Center, on Goulden Street in Port Huron, has the potential to be bustling with activity once again after an investment from The Community Foundation of St. Clair County. The Athletic Factory, a local organization, received an $18,000 grant to use toward reopening the neighborhood center for youth programs.
The Athletic Factory’s mission is to “create recreational opportunities that support the positive development of St. Clair County and surrounding counties’ youth through athletic participation and competition, educational tutoring, and student-athlete college preparation”. They also strive to develop local athletes to be able to participate in competitive travel leagues.
The grant will assist in making possible a June 2020 programming schedule that includes free open gym for middle and high school kids, a seven-week ACT/SAT prep course, and a gaming area. The Athletic Factory has the organizational objectives of improving law-abiding behavior, improving self-functioning, increasing self-esteem, and improving school attendance, academic performance, and athletic skills.
Reporting for WGRT, Karly Hurley.
