Skywalker Outreach Services offers three free programs to kids from 5:30pm - 8:30pm on weeknights at 400 E. Eldorado Street.
The Leadership Academy program gives snacks, teaches life skills, hosts gym activities like basketball and weight training, and offers gang prevention specialists and counseling.
AWOL is similar, but more curriculum based and has teachers to help with school & homework.
The Boxing program also includes a life skills curriculum.
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All three programs are 5:30pm-8:30pm, are free, and are open to boys & girls.
- Leadership Academy is up to 75 kids ages 12-18 on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
- AWOL is up to 50 kids & young adults ages 12-22 on Mondays & Thursdays.
- Boxing is up to 50 for ages 12-22 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
Parents must bring kids and sign them in, but do not need to stay during the program. You don't need to register or call ahead.
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Skywalker Outreach Services Inc. pays all costs for the programs and provides boxing equipment.
Rodney Walker says they have good staffing, but if you wish to volunteer or have questions about programs you can contact him at 217-520-4447, sos.inc217@gmail.com or on Facebook @SkyWalkerOutreach
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Rodney Walker owns SkyWalker International Sport Complex and runs a private business out of it with paid programs. He is also the CEO of the non-profit SkyWalker Outreach Services Inc, which secures grants, rents space at the Complex, and covers costs of the free programs.
I emailed Rodney Walker "Could I get a statement about conflict of interest and to know what kind of revenue the private business side gets from the non-profit side?" and he replied "Our experienced grant specialist used a fair market assessment to make sure funds were allocated to cover No for profit [sic] program cost!"
Valerie Wells, from Herald & Review previously reported on the launch day.