Advancing the mission in the community
The Academy is committed to serving the most underserved areas of the community, with a particular emphasis on the neighborhoods east of the Anacostia River. A community-centered approach to holistic youth development requires robust coordination with residents, schools, and municipal agencies. This hyperlocal approach is bolstered through collaboration with nonprofit partners, civic leaders, corporate champions, and community members at large.
The community engagement function of the Academy is anchored in our mission of using the sports of baseball and softball as vehicles to foster positive character development, academic achievement, and improved health for underserved area youth. It follows two tracks of activity.
- Attracting interest and support from individuals and organizations to dedicate their time and talent to our Scholar Athletes through weekly mentorship and standalone volunteer engagements at our Fort Dupont Park facility.
- Scaling Academy programs to offsite locations in the community through YBA PLAY – free baseball clinics that make the game accessible and foster character development.