Season 2, Episode 25 - Empowering the Community Through Sports and Programs

Empowering the Community Through Sports and Programs

 

This week, Scott Anderson sat down with Brianna Goodwin and Shelbi Lowery from the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation to delve into the organization's mission, programs, and their impactful role in the community. The Colorado Springs Sports Corporation is dedicated to championing the Olympic movement, hosting a myriad of sporting events, and providing essential opportunities through programs such as the YES program. In this blog post, we'll explore the multifaceted initiatives of the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation and the profound impact they have on the community.

Championing the Olympic Movement:  The Colorado Springs Sports Corporation was established with the primary goal of bringing the US Olympic Committee to Colorado Springs. Anchored in the community as "Olympic City USA," the organization plays a pivotal role in supporting the Olympic and Paralympic Movement. From collaborating with the US Olympic and Paralympic Museum to working with national governing bodies (NGBs) such as USA Cycling and USA Swimming, the Sports Corporation fosters a robust environment for Olympic and Paralympic sports. Its commitment to upholding the Olympic movement positions Colorado Springs as a hub for athletic excellence and creates a platform for aspiring athletes to pursue their Olympic dreams.

Empowering the Community Through Events:  One of the most recognizable facets of the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation is its organization and management of diverse sporting events. These events, ranging from the Colorado Springs Labor Day Liftoff to the Rocky Mountain State Games, draw in community members and visitors alike, fostering a sense of unity and celebration. The international World Jump Rope Championships, highlighted during the podcast, exemplify the organization's ability to bring global sporting events to the local stage, captivating audiences and showcasing the city's vibrant sports culture.

Community Sports Programming - The YES Program:  The YES program, short for Youth Education and Sport, reflects the Sports Corporation's commitment to providing inclusive sports programs to the greater community. Developed in partnership with the Pikes Peak United Way, the YES program offers youth the opportunity to engage in various sports, cultivating not only athletic skills but also essential life skills such as teamwork and sportsmanship. The program's impact resonates as it fills a vital gap, especially for underserved children, offering them a chance to experience the joys of sports in a supportive and nurturing environment.

Expanding Opportunities Through Scholarships:  Supplementing their programs, the Sports Corporation also offers youth scholarships, ensuring access to sports beyond the YES program. These scholarships enable young individuals to participate in events like the Rocky Mountain State Games and Cycle to the Summit, opening doors to competitive sports and fostering athletic development. By providing financial assistance, the organization actively promotes inclusivity and equity in sports participation, reinforcing the belief that every young person should have the chance to pursue their sporting passions.

Community Involvement, Volunteering and Engagement:  The Colorado Springs Sports Corporation actively engages the community, providing opportunities for individuals to volunteer, be it as part of a balloon crew at the Labor Day Liftoff or assisting with post-event tasks. Welcoming volunteers with diverse skills and interests, the Sports Corporation creates a network of support, emphasizing that the success of their events is intertwined with the active participation and engagement of the community.

Through their unwavering commitment to championing the Olympic movement, the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation hosts diverse sporting events, and provides essential programs and scholarships that enriches the lives of individuals across El Paso County, Colorado. As the organization expands its outreach and involvement, it serves as a testament to the transformative power of sports in fostering a stronger, more inclusive community.