In 2012, Monique Olowu was a Cleveland parent looking to introduce her son to a college campus. The National Youth Sports Program (NYSP) at Case Western Reserve University—a five-week experience that combines sports, education and health services—presented the perfect opportunity. 

Olowu quickly immersed herself in the program’s close-knit community as a parent volunteer where she helped support enrichment activities and assisted with transportation. 

“I knew he would be interested in sports,” said Olowu. “NYSP changes lives because of its exposure to different people and things that cause a lightbulb to go off.”

Today, she is the program’s assistant director and works alongside NYSP Project Administrator Dennis “Coach” Harris to further the program’s main objective: to tap into a child’s potential and provide opportunities that spark new passions. In recognition of National Recreational Sports and Fitness Day (Feb. 22), The Daily sat down with Olowu and Harris to learn more about the program.

“Sports aren’t for everyone, but our program is,” said Harris, who has been involved with the program since 1988. “We allow children to be on a college campus since there are some who don’t have the opportunity.”

Whether you’re interested in youth empowerment and wellness, community engagement or sports-related health initiatives, read on to discover five things you may not know about NYSP. 

1. The National Youth Sports Program hosted at CWRU is the last of its kind in the U.S.

Founded in the late 1960s, the National Youth Sports Program was a federally funded initiative designed to support socioeconomically disadvantaged youth and operated at over 200 higher education institutions until closures due to lack of financial support. 

2. Each year, NYSP serves more than 300 participants—both local and from out of state. 

Open to individuals ages 8-16, the program offers a safe and structured environment within numerous CWRU facilities. Additionally, the program offers participants free medical screenings, hot meals and field trips to destinations including the Cleveland Art Museum, Western Reserve Historical Society and more. 

3. NYSP combines fitness, fun and learning to promote character-building that can extend to every facet of life. 

Beyond athletics and physical activities, the NYSP offers participants at least one enrichment session each day covering a variety of subjects—from STEM and civic education to career exploration. Those part of the program are also able to learn sports fundamentals such as teamwork and sportsmanship as they grow other personal development skills.

4. At CWRU, NYSP has touched the lives of countless children and families for nearly 55 years. 

With the help of its dedicated staff—made up of CWRU faculty, volunteers and guest speakers—individuals from all walks of life are provided the same guidance and supportive environment that allows participants to thrive academically, professionally and personally. From doctors and lawyers to engineers, educators and professional athletes, past participants have gone on to thrive in their careers.

5. The impact of NYSP doesn’t end when the summer is over.

At the completion of the five weeks, Cleveland community members are invited to the program’s annual picnic and talent show fundraiser, which helps support NYSP 365, an extension that aims to strengthen positive community relationships through civic engagement. The program’s focuses include health and wellness, educational empowerment and more. 

Looking to get your child involved in the 2025 National Youth Sports Program? Visit the Office of Government and Community Relations’ website to register for the program, which will run from June 9 through July 11. Or, you can support the initiative by making a gift online.