Briefly describe your program.
Especially for Athletes (“E4A”) exists to inspire student athletes to maximize their athletic potential and to use their talents and social influence to assist and lift others. E4A is building a culture of athletes who use their influence, a phrase we call the “Sportlight”, to make a positive change in the lives of those who may be downtrodden, depressed, or in need of friendship, all while giving a more focused effort to school and athletics. Through educational courses and seminars, athletes and parents are taught to develop principles of leadership, hard work, goal setting, kindness, dedication, and helping others. This program is working. Lives are being influenced for good. Student athletes are the culture creators in the schools of America and with the right training and motivation can be the change we all know is needed to prevent the horrific stories we hear about daily from our young people. Professional athletes are joining the cause, and thousands of athletes off all ages and skill levels have taken the E4A promise along with their schools and sports groups who are eager to join the movement.
E4A is based upon curriculum that teaches student athletes and their parents the principles of positive leadership. These principles are taught through online curriculum, in-school assemblies, private team and league camps, and public events held around the country. The E4A principles are supported and enforced by parents, teachers, coaches and, most effectively, the students themselves through positive peer pressure.