1889 Foundation has granted $100,000 to fund facility renovations and expansions at the Flood City Youth Fitness Academy (FCYFA). The FCYFA provides services to at-risk young people from kindergarten through 12th grade, including programming, tutoring services, and meals.
“This grant makes it possible for us to greatly expand the type of programming we’re able to offer, and increase the number of young people we serve,” said Oscar Cashaw of FCYFA.
Specifically, the grant has funded:
- Renovation of kitchen, rec room and computer lab: Accordion room dividers were purchased and installed to make existing spaces more flexible, so that they can be used as classrooms for smaller groups, or gathering areas for larger groups. The rooms also received fresh paint, new ceiling tiles, new electrical outlets and other improvements.
- New electronics: The grant enabled the FCYFA to upgrade computers, tablets, large-screen TVs, and other electronics for students’ use.
Additional renovations that are funded but have not yet been completed include the installation of more room dividers and new flooring.
Founded in 2012, the FCYFA was originally focused on physical fitness. But it quickly expanded its mission to provide after-school activities, tutoring, and classes. Today, the FCYFA serves more than 200 youth daily, transporting them from school to their facility, providing hot meals and snacks, as well as recreational and academic activities.
“1889 Foundation is a truly community-based organization, and we are so grateful for their partnership with us,” said Oscar Cashaw. “They believe in us and in what we’re trying to do. Without 1889 Foundation, none of this would be happening.”
“The FCYFA is making a huge difference in the lives of our region’s young people, giving them an opportunity to build a brighter future for themselves,” said Susan Mann, president of 1889 Foundation. “These types of investments are among the most important 1889 Foundation can make.”
