The sounds of metal free weights hitting the floor accompanied by grunts of exhaustion grew louder and clearer as I approached the entrance of the facility now known as H.O.P.E. Fitness Academy. Once inside, the intrigue was instantaneous. On each wall was magnificent motivational graffiti. Phrases such as “Never give up” and “Grind now, shine later” were plastered on the wall in crazy fonts and illustrious colors.
Read more The Audacity of H.O.P.E.: A conversation with Derick AlexanderAbout Us
H.O.P.E. (Higher Our Potential Everyday) Fitness Academy was founded in 2009 to give back to the inner city of Columbus by focusing our efforts on the at-risk male youth. H.O.P.E’s mission is to encourage them to reach their potential by providing them with the most effective health/fitness training, mentorships, and tutoring programs. Our focus is to enhance the total person: mind, body and spirit in a diverse and uplifting environment. H.O.P.E. provides a brotherhood of support for the participants. The mentors check their grades, provide community resources when needed and require community service activities. It is important to H.O.P.E. that the boys are striving for excellence on and off the field.
