Governor Wes Moore Participates in Annual Baltimore Youth Flag Football Event

Governor Wes Moore recently participated in the third annual NFL Players Association & Joel Gamble Foundation Flag Football Game held in Baltimore City, according to a press release from the Office of Governor Wes Moore. The governor engaged in two games with young people between the ages of 11 and 17. Some of these participants are also involved in the Thrive Academy, a violence reduction program for at-risk youth in Baltimore City, as well as Baltimore, Anne Arundel, and Prince George’s Counties.

This event highlighted a collaborative effort between Baltimore City, the Joel Gamble Foundation, the NFL Players Association Baltimore Chapter, and other local youth organizations, including We, Our, Us. We, Our, Us plays a role in bringing together youth organizations for events like the B’More Youth Summit and focuses on resource provision for young people, particularly boys and young men, to foster their success. The organization also partners with the Thrive Academy, a program established by the Moore-Miller Administration. The Thrive Academy aims to mitigate youth gun violence through tailored support and mentorship.

The Thrive Academy, which began in the fall of 2023, connects at-risk youth with case managers and life coaches. These mentors, often from youth non-profits like We, Our, Us, share their personal experiences and teach practical skills to help young individuals navigate their daily lives and recognize their potential. The administration views this approach as crucial in empowering young men and boys across Maryland.

The broader initiative by the Moore-Miller Administration emphasizes a comprehensive, government-wide strategy to identify and address the specific challenges faced by young men and boys. This includes improving access to mental and behavioral health services for those most vulnerable, developing educational and healthcare career paths for students and emerging workers, and strengthening mentorship and apprenticeship programs. These programs are designed to connect boys and young men with positive role models and opportunities for growth. The administration’s focus on viewing young men and boys as assets rather than problems underscores the importance of such community engagement and support programs.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Office of Governor Wes Moore

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