Introducing "In the Ring": Expanding Boxing Opportunities for NYC Youth
- Raquel Harris
- May 5
- 2 min read
Ring of Hope is launching a new program called "In the Ring" to further empower young people through the discipline of boxing. This initiative expands our reach by partnering with local gyms to offer free, donation-based boxing classes to more students across New York City.
Who Can Participate in "In the Ring"?
Initially, the program will be available to:
Students in select Ring of Hope partner schools: This provides supplementary boxing training outside of school hours in a gym environment. Continued participation in our existing Ring of Hope programs and workshops is required for access.
Foster youth ages 13–26 involved in the Soul Care initiative: Through a collaboration with the Soul Care program and Art Pharmacy, which connects individuals to community-based wellness activities, these young people will have the opportunity to participate in "In the Ring." We are Art Pharmacy's first boxing provider.
Developing Focus and Discipline Through Boxing
"In the Ring" focuses on building focus and discipline through boxing training, including working with heavy bags and adhering to gym protocols. Participants will gain valuable skills and become part of a supportive training environment.
A Structured Training System
The program utilizes a tiered system for skill development:
Tier 1: Beginner/Basics: Introduction to fundamental boxing techniques.
Tier 2: Sparring Drills: Developing skills through controlled sparring.
Tier 3: Full Sparring/Competition: Advanced training with potential for full-time training scholarships based on available donated funds.
Pilot Launch and Future Growth
The initial phase of "In the Ring" will be an exclusive pilot program. While initial spots are limited, interested youth who are not currently eligible are welcome to apply, and slots may become available based on capacity.
Our first "In the Ring" site will be Mendez Boxing in Harlem. The long-term vision is to expand this program to over 10 weekly classes across all five boroughs, encompassing boxing, judo, and Muay Thai.
Creating Opportunities
This expansion will also create job opportunities for trainers in the community. We anticipate "In the Ring" as a significant step towards providing more opportunities for youth development and community engagement in New York City.
"In the Ring" is a collaborative effort made possible through the support and partnership of local gyms, the Soul Care initiative (a collaboration between NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS), The Center for Fair Futures, The Mayor’s Office for Community Mental Health, and Foster Youth Impact (FYI)), and Art Pharmacy.
We invite you to support the growth of 'In the Ring' and our internship program for NYC students at our Second Annual Fundraiser: Championing Dreams on June 20th at the Melrose Ballroom. Your contribution will directly impact these vital initiatives. Donate here: Ring of Hope Donation Page. Tickets for Championing Dreams launches on May 10th – we hope to see you there!