Newland, NC, Oct 31, 2007 – This year over 200 agencies from parks and recreation, schools, and leagues applied for the 2007 National Football League (NFL) Youth Fund Local Agency Grant in partnership with the National Recreation & Park Association (NRPA). Each applicant submitted detailed information concerning the state of youth football within their community in order to qualify for funding through this competitive process. Both tackle and flag programs were considered for support across the country.Avery County Parks and Recreation received funding support for local youth flag and tackle football in order to provide new equipment and volunteer background checks. These programs will effect over 160 youth every fall season.
Over 100 agencies received funding to enhance programs and create stability for the future of youth football at the grassroots level. Avery County Parks and Recreation was awarded a grant in the amount of $4,000. Director Robbie Willis stated “the award will go toward unifying our services in the area of youth football. A portion of these funds will be used to pay a one-time fee to a NRPA network provider of volunteer background checks, while another portion will be used as seed money for flag football and yet another portion will go toward tackle football equipment.” Willis concluded the department was very excited to be recognized by both the NFL and NRPA through this grant.
