"Changing the Neighborhood One kid at a Time"
SPORTS + COMMUNITY
Building Stronger Youth Through Sports, Education, and Community
Neighborhood Athletics is a non-profit organization based in Columbus, Ohio, dedicated to expanding access to sports, education, mentorship, and wellness for youth in the communities. We create safe, structured, and empowering environments where young people can grow not just as athletes, but as students, leaders, and individuals.
Through our programs, youth develop essential skills such as discipline, teamwork, confidence, and resilience. We combine athletics with academic support and mentorship to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed both on and off the field.
Our vision is to uplift communities by investing in their youth. We don’t just teach sports; we inspire purpose, build character, and cultivate the next generation of confident leaders.
1500+
Youth Reached
100+
Training Sessions Annually
80+
Volunteers mobilized
40+
Mentorship sessions
Our Story
ABOUT US
Building Opportunity, Transforming Lives, One Generation at a Time.
We come from a Somali Bantu refugee background shaped by war, hardship, and limited opportunities. Despite this, our parents raised a resilient generation grounded in strength and determination.
Today, we carry their legacy forward by empowering youth in underserved communities through sports, mentorship, education, and wellness, using these tools to create opportunities, build leaders, and uplift our community for a better future.
We empower youth
We equip young people with the tools, guidance, and support they need to succeed. Through education, mentorship, and life-skills development, we help youth become confident leaders prepared to thrive in their communities and beyond.
We transform lives through sports
Sports are more than just a game; they are a gateway to opportunity. Through structured athletics, we teach discipline, teamwork, and leadership while connecting youth to mentorship, education, and pathways for long-term success.
Wellness
We promote the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of youth by providing safe spaces, supportive mentorship, and access to structured programs that build confidence and healthy life habits.
PROGRAMS
We use sport to bring our community together while promoting growth, confidence, and fun at every stage.
Our Athletic Pathways
GET INVOLVED
Together, we can build a stronger community and brighter future for youth to grow, succeed, and thrive. Your support helps us provide safe spaces, mentorship, and life-changing programs for the next generation.
Be part of the Change
Volunteer
Join a team creating a positive difference in the lives of young people.
Donate
Your donation helps us deliver programs, and create lasting impact in our community.
Building Stronger Communities
COMMUNITY IMPACT
We are committed to creating meaningful, lasting impact by addressing the needs of youth and families in undeserved communities. Through our programs and partnerships, we build safer spaces, expand opportunities, and strengthen the communities we serve.
Food Care Initiative
We support individuals and families with access to food, and supplies, helping to ease hardship and strengthen our community.
Girls Who Lead
We empower girls through sports, mentorship, and life skills, helping them build confidence, leadership, and independence.
Community Engagement
We bring people together through inclusive activities, creating safe spaces where individuals can connect and grow.