The Horizon Foundation is proud to partner with the Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks and the Howard County Public School System to expand after-school sports opportunities to more students. The Recreation Inspired Sports for Everyone (RISE) program launched as a pilot at three middle schools in February 2020 and hopes to expand to more schools in the future.

For two hours twice a week, the students enjoy team play while learning the fundamentals and some advanced game skills through drills and exercises led by certified coaches. The types of sports will vary in each season.

After-school sports are a great way for kids to increase their physical activity while also learning important teamwork and leadership skills in a fun environment. However, many of our kids are shut out of opportunities to participate in sports because of high program costs and a lack of access to transportation. Physical activity is critical for all kids to develop lifelong healthy habits and to reduce their risks of chronic disease. The RISE program is an opportunity for all kids to get active, while also offering reduced costs and transportation for kids who qualify.

We want good health to be achievable for all kids. This program is a great step towards achieving that goal and we’re looking forward to seeing this program expand across Howard County in the future.