I am just being introduced to the boxing world through my children who have been training out of Jaun Laporte’s Boxing Gym in the Bronx for the last 2 ½ months. Since the beginning of their training I have noticed a dramatic (positive) change in their behavior at home and in school. It has just been brought to my attention while attending a board meeting at the gym that because of a lack of funding the gym owner is unable to pay the rent, thus putting about 75 children out on the ruff streets of the Bronx. I am looking for advise on how I can help raise money to help out Jaun Laporte’s Boxing Gym that cares for so many inner city youth in the community. The trainers there take the time out of their busy schedule to work with these children and free of charge for the kids who are unable to pay. I just cant imagine seeing this place close down. Any tips that you can give me will be greatly appreciated.
^ Facebook groups would be a good idea. Perhaps reach out to some NY based fighters on there like Paul Malignaggi, i'm sure he'd try to help promote your cause
Honestly go to the City, I just did this for our new club in Los Angeles and got funding to run an at risk youth class between 3 and 6 pm basicly the kids get to train for free, no dues just bring your wraps gloves mouthpiece and water. You can go to the department of parks and rec to start out from there they should direct you to the right people. its not alot of money that they give but its enough to keep the lights on and get new equipment every now and then
When you do go to the city if you do, dont tell them your club is looking for Champions, just describe the program how it helps the youth and the safety of the sport, be sure to stay away from selling the idea of having future champions talk about what Amateur boxing can provide for these kids Olympics, education etc.... Good luck and if you need any assistance let me know I will do my best to help you out, I also have a friend who I can put you in contact with who can also help you get going in the right direction, she helped me as well
Thanks I will keep you posted on my actions. It feels great to know that there is support out there. I will draft something up this weekend and let you take a look at it. Thanks again...
I know you're just getting started in the sport, but you'll find USA Boxing is a big family, amongst the members at least, no matter where in the country you are. One big, dysfunctional family, but still.
Thats really sad since I started boxing there when I was little, Juan Laporte's gym is pretty well known as well. I'd recommend a news paper
Perhaps since you had started out there maybe you can drop off a set of gloves and a head gear or something
Yea that would really help out. Some of the members of the gym came up with a great idea of asking any friend who is in a postion to donate 100 bucks for the rent to help out . I have had a meeting with my boss (who has started a very successfull non profit organization 10 years ago) regarding this matter and he is willing to help out with the grant writing and proposals. This may be promising, but its going to take time. My concern is the immediate future.
The best you can do is network with others, go to a couple local car dealerships and talk to the General sales manager see if they would be willing to donate.
The city sponsors our local boxing gym, just call someone at city hall that sounds important. I'm sure they will point you to someone who can point you to someone that will show you where to start.
Well to be honest with you it is the only boxing gym I really know. It is a small place with only one ring, but the trainers are great with the pros and beginners that train there. Its a very family orientated gym with alot of talented boxers. If I was a boxer I think that that would be the place for me. Maybe you should stop By and see for yourself.