Inspiring Youth While Building Futures Together
At The Volleyball School Foundation, we believe in the power of sports, education, and mentorship to transform the lives of young people in our community. Our commitment to this mission has led us to form partnerships that extend the reach of our programs and make a meaningful impact where it is needed most.
One such partnership that has left an impression on us is our collaboration with The Draw Academy. In 2022, we joined forces to bring our Community Outreach United in Sports and Academic Success (COUSINS) program to the heart of Houston’s inner-city community. Little did we know the tremendous success and positive influence this partnership would have on the lives of the children we serve.
The COUSINS Program: A Beacon of Opportunity
Our COUSINS program is designed to provide students in grades K-7 with the chance to learn and belong to a volleyball team, regardless of their skill level. It is about much more than just sports; it is about fostering a sense of belonging, promoting academic success, and instilling essential life lessons.
A Year of Success and Continuation
The COUSINS Program–It is about much more than just sports; it is about fostering a sense of belonging, promoting academic success, and instilling essential life lessons.
The year 2022 marked the beginning of our partnership with The Draw Academy. Once a week, students eagerly gathered for the one-hour COUSINS session, and the attendance exceeded our expectations. The kids not only learned the fundamentals of volleyball but also developed vital teamwork skills, all while having a blast. The success of the program was palpable. The kids looked forward to each session, excited to work as a team and compete at the end. The COUSINS program brought smiles, camaraderie, and a newfound sense of self-confidence to these young minds.
“ The COUSINS Program–It is about much more than just sports; it is about fostering a sense of belonging, promoting academic success, and instilling essential life lessons. ”
Due to the overwhelming success and the positive impact witnessed in 2022, we are thrilled to announce that The Draw Academy and The Volleyball School Foundation have decided to extend the COUSINS program for another year, through May 30th, 2023. This extension signifies our shared commitment to empowering the youth in the inner-city community and giving them the tools, they need to succeed.
A Bright Future Ahead
In 2023, we are taking our dedication a step further. We will provide free snacks and a beverage to the kids in attendance during the after-school program. We believe that by removing barriers and ensuring access to these essentials, we can enhance the overall experience and make a more significant impact on the lives of these young individuals.
As we look ahead to the Community Outreach United in Sports and Academic Success (COUSINS) program’s future, we envision a community where every child can thrive, both academically and personally. We see a generation of young leaders emerging, empowered by their experiences in COUSINS and guided by the values of teamwork, perseverance, and positivity.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Our partnership with The Draw Academy is a testament to the incredible transformations that can occur when like-minded organizations come together for a common purpose. We invite you to join us on this journey of empowerment and impact. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word about our mission, your support can help us create a brighter future for the youth in our community.
Together, we can continue to empower tomorrow’s leaders, one COUSINS at a time. Join us and let us make a lasting difference in the lives of these remarkable kids.