National non-profit Laureus Sport for Good Foundation USA, powered by Mercedes-Benz USA, has invested an initial $1 million to fund grants to youth development organizations in three of Atlanta’s Westside neighborhoods. This investment, also supported by the National Recreation Foundation, is the first phase of a $3 million commitment that will expand pathways of success for Westside youth. These grants will help facilitate the growth of 14 out of school programs using sport to improve the health, education, employment and social and emotional well-being of local youth.

On Monday, July 17, 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., over 300 Westside youth and their families will enjoy sports, games and food with the 14 awarded organizations at historic Washington Park. Together, Laureus USA and Mercedes-Benz USA will officially kick-off Sport for Good Atlanta with the support of the National Recreation Foundation, Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC. The Sport for Good Atlanta Kickoff is also an official stop on Nickelodeon’s summer-long celebration of play, leading up to the network’s 14^th annual Worldwide Day of Play. The event will incorporate Nick-themed games and activities to encourage more active lifestyles for the local community.

“We are excited to support 14 Sport for Good programs in Atlanta’s Westside, as they give youth a constructive outlet to develop confidence, set goals, and connect with adult mentors,” said Benita Fitzgerald Mosley, CEO of Laureus USA and Olympic Gold Medalist in Track and Field. “By providing these grants, we are empowering these organizations to work together and make an even bigger impact. One program alone cannot solve the challenges our research identified, which is why we are building a team of passionate programs that can make our long-term goals of reducing violence and improving educational attainment, achievable.”

“Mercedes-Benz USA places a high priority on nurturing leadership and for decades has supported programs focused on educating and empowering the next generation,” said Dietmar Exler, CEO of MBUSA. “Sport for Good Atlanta will provide young people with tools they need to reach their full potential. We look forward to working closely with Laureus USA and our other partner organizations to help create a sustainable future for the youth of the Westside.”