Local kids shoot, score…and ‘WIN!’
By Kim Chiomento, Staff Writer, The Times
(Foreground) KHS’ Midfield players Cedric Jones & Chris Brooks along with KHS’ Attack players (background) Logan Hunt & Ben Gaver assemble new indoor lacrosse equipment.
KENNETT – The arrival of March for many kids means dusting off lacrosse gear, hitting bounce-backs or excitedly preparing to pick up a stick for the first time. For some area youth, access to lacrosse gear, instruction, and an opportunity to play with friends is not always so easy.
When a local community leader and volunteer, (who wishes to remain anonymous), celebrated a milestone birthday recently, friends rallied in her honor by supporting one of her favorite causes – The Garage Community and Youth Center.
The thoughtful group gift initiative was led by Kennett-area youth lacrosse coach, Jill Hunt, who reached out to The Garage to learn of any needs or ‘wish list’ items they had. When Hunt learned that lacrosse ‘fiddle’ sticks, indoor goal cages & some basic instruction were at the top of that list, Hunt set out on a mission to honor her friend’s birthday by organizing gifting with a purpose.
Game ON! Jonette & Kayla, fans of the Garage, get some hands-on lacrosse instruction.
Hunt also reached out to Kennett High School’s boys and girls lacrosse teams knowing that they would enjoy an opportunity to share the gift of lacrosse and offer area kids some basic pointers. The project took off; and thanks to Hunt’s efforts, Garage youth enjoyed an afternoon of indoor lacrosse, instruction and now have access to new equipment that enables them to hold pick-up games and burn off some serious after school ‘steam.’
Kennett Square businesses, Pillar to Post Home Inspections and Enzo’s Pizza, generously donated pizzas and bottled water to help keep the busy kids and volunteers well fed.
Thanks to the generosity of Kennett Square’s Pillar to Post Home Inspections & Enzo’s Pizza, kids enjoyed a post lacrosse pizza party.
“Some kids don’t know what their opportunities are, where to find resources or what their potential is…an event and gifts like these helps kids to see themselves in a positive light and make those connections happen,” says Garage Executive Director Kristin Proto, “I love these students and it is a blessing for me to get paid to invest in young lives.”
When asked about her cool birthday initiative, the honoree was heard saying “It is only cool because I have the coolest friends.”
The Garage’s mission is to empower youth to reach their potential academically, spiritually and socially. To get involved, donate or volunteer visit please www.garageyouthcenter.org or call 610-444-6464.
