USATF Athletes, Mark Jelks & Leslie Cole, Host a Track Clinic for Kids

Two new members, Leslie Cole and Mark Jelks, headed to the Center for Families and Children Inc. on January 20th to volunteer. Leslie and Mark, both track & field athletes, took time out from practice to give back to their community in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. During the visit, the pair hosted a track and field clinic for fifteen kids where they participated in drills and relays. The clinic served as a perfect opportunity for Leslie and Mark to talk to the kids about their experiences in track and field, how to be successful in sports, and what it means to be dedicated and determined. Following the clinic, everyone took a break from recreational activities and participated in arts and crafts. The kids, who always enjoy visitors, were especially thrilled to have two professional athletes come and visit.

“The kids know that the coordinators of the program care for them, but when someone else from the community comes in, it shows that there are many others out there.,” said Leslie of her visit. “I affected them by just being there and showing them that someone else from their community really cares about them.”

Both Leslie and Mark had a wonderful time at the Center for Families and Children. They kids were enthusiastic about their visit a joy to be around. They look forward to another visit in the near future!

Leslie and Mark were one of 35 AFH members from across the country who volunteered their services on MLK. Initiated by Congress in 1994, the King Day of Service transforms the federal holiday into a national day of community service grounded in Dr. King’s teachings of nonviolence and social justice. The Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal agency that oversees the nation’s domestic service initiatives, led the annual Martin Luther King Day of Service in partnership with the King Center and nonprofits, community groups, schools, and businesses across the country.

To learn more visit their website.