Our Programs & Initiatives

Our Youth Running program meets young people where they are — whether they've never run a mile or are preparing for their first 5K. Structured sessions combine fitness training with mentorship, goal-setting, and community-building.

• Weekly group runs and training sessions at lakefront parks
• Beginner-friendly programming for all fitness levels
• Goal-setting and personal achievement tracking
• Race preparation and community event participation
• Nutrition and wellness education integrated into sessions
• Mentorship from trained adult coaches and volunteers

From soccer and basketball to flag football and volleyball, our multi-sport leagues provide structured play in a welcoming, low-pressure environment. Leagues rotate sports by season to expose youth to a wide range of athletic experiences.

• Seasonal leagues (fall, winter, spring, summer)
• Soccer, basketball, flag football, volleyball, and more
• All equipment provided — no gear required
• Coed and single-gender divisions available
• Emphasis on teamwork, sportsmanship, and fun
• Weekend and after-school scheduling options

Lake Michigan is one of Racine's greatest assets — and many youth have never fully experienced it. Our Outdoor Education program takes young people off screens and into nature, building environmental stewardship alongside physical wellness.

• Lakefront exploration walks and nature hikes
• Environmental education and sustainability projects
• Kayaking, paddleboarding, and water safety introduction
• Bird watching, plant identification, and ecology lessons
• Partnerships with state parks and conservation organizations
• Summer day trips and overnight outdoor experiences

Great coaches change lives. Our training program invests in the adults who work with Racine youth — providing professional development, trauma-informed coaching techniques, and resources to create the most positive play environments possible.

• Positive Youth Development (PYD) coaching certification
• Trauma-informed and culturally responsive coaching practices
• First aid, CPR, and safety certifications provided
• Ongoing mentorship and peer coaching network
• Monthly workshops and resource library
• Open to volunteer and professional coaches citywide

A safe, welcoming space to play is foundational. We partner with the City of Racine, neighborhood associations, and community organizations to activate underutilized parks and recreation spaces, ensuring youth have safe places to play in their own neighborhoods.

• Pop-up play activations in parks and community spaces
• Playground equipment upgrades and improvements
• Supervised open recreation hours at parks
• Mobile play units bringing equipment to neighborhoods
• Community input process for space design and activation
• Year-round programming including winter indoor options

Beyond our direct programs, we fund the broader ecosystem of youth-serving organizations in Racine County. Through our grants program, we invest in nonprofits, schools, and community groups doing the daily work of getting kids moving.

• Grants ranging from $2,500 to $25,000
• Funding for equipment, staff, facility costs, and transportation
• Quarterly application review cycles
• Open to nonprofits, schools, and community organizations
• Priority for programs serving underserved youth
• Technical assistance available to applicants