News Summary
The community of Newport News eagerly welcomes back the ‘Friday Night Nets’ program this summer, offering fun activities for families while empowering local youth through the Mayor’s Youth T.H.R.I.V.E. Initiative. Running from May 16 to August 22, the event features sports, games, food, and mental health resources, aiming to foster connections and support within the community. Attendees can enjoy designated time slots for youth and adults at two venues, promoting safe and enjoyable interactions among residents. Join us and make a positive impact this summer!
Exciting Community Engagement Program ‘Friday Night Nets’ Launches in Newport News This Summer
Newport News is buzzing with excitement as the much-anticipated ‘Friday Night Nets’ program makes its return this summer! This vibrant community engagement initiative aims to support local youth and create positive experiences for everyone involved. With the city’s leaders at the helm, residents can look forward to a fun-filled season jam-packed with activities for the whole family.
Empowering Young Minds
At the heart of the ‘Friday Night Nets’ is the Mayor’s Youth T.H.R.I.V.E. Initiative, which stands for Trust, Hope, Resilience, Innovation, Vision, and Engagement. This initiative is focused on empowering the youth of Newport News by providing them with active social outlets where they can connect and share experiences. The program, which made its debut last year, is set to grow even bigger and better in 2025, much to the joy of community members.
Mark Your Calendars!
Taking place from May 16 through August 22, ‘Friday Night Nets’ will run every Friday evening. There’s a special schedule to cater to different age groups:
- Youth (17 and under): 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Adults (18 and over): 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
This structure allows both young people and adults to enjoy the event in their own time slots, promoting intergenerational engagement while keeping everyone safely entertained.
What’s in Store?
So, what can participants expect when they attend ‘Friday Night Nets’? There will be a whole host of activities to enjoy, including sports, games, free food, and even haircuts! Talk about a win-win! The event is free and open to everyone in the community, making it a wonderful opportunity to gather and enjoy a summer night filled with fun.
Where’s the Action Happening?
The community can look forward to two fantastic venues for this summer program:
- Denbigh Community Center
- An Achievable Dream Tennis Center
Both locations will serve as safe havens for recreational activities, encouraging residents to come out and connect with one another.
More than Just Fun and Games
Not only does ‘Friday Night Nets’ provide an outlet for recreation, but it also aims to address critical issues such as youth violence. With the Newport News Police reporting several unfortunate incidents, this program hopes to steer young people toward healthier choices and away from violence. Last year’s initiative was designed to reduce youth violence through semi-organized basketball games, and it has successfully provided a healthy outlet for young people ages 12 to 25.
Attendees can look forward to more than just sports; there will be free food, t-shirts, and mental health resources available on-site. In collaboration with organizations like Quality of Life Services, mental health counseling will also be offered to those in need. This focus on mental health adds another layer of support for participants, ensuring that their well-being is prioritized.
Safety First!
In an effort to promote safety and reduce gun violence, gun locks will be distributed during the Night Nets events. This vital initiative is aimed at fostering effective communication and trust within the community, creating lasting relationships among youth and adults alike. It’s all about building a supportive neighborhood where everybody feels included and valued.
Get Involved!
Ready to join in on the fun? Registration for ‘Friday Night Nets’ can be completed online, over the phone at 757-926-1400, or in person at any Newport News Community Center. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to engage with your community, participate in exciting activities, and make a positive impact this summer!
Whether you’re looking to ball on the court, enjoy some delicious food, or just connect with your neighbors, ‘Friday Night Nets’ promises to make your summer brighter. Get ready, Newport News – it’s going to be an unforgettable season!
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Additional Resources
- WAVY: Friday Night Nets Returns
- 13 News Now: Night Nets Brings More Than Hoops
- WTKR: Newport News Kicks Off Night Youth Basketball Program
- Wikipedia: Community Engagement
- 13 News Now: New Youth Basketball League Kicks Off
- Google Search: Newport News Youth Programs
