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Causes: Racquet Sports, Sports
Mission: Norwalk grassroots tennis inc. Operates a free community tennis and education program for children from disadvantaged families in the city of norwalk, connecticut. Norwalk grassroots tennis employs a comprehensive approach to treat the needs of the whole child, emphasizing achievements on the tennis court, in the classroom, a plan for college, and the opportunity to explore different career options until each child finds a fit for his or her talents and interests.
Programs: Tennis program: an entirely free program providing economically disadvantaged children the chance to learn and play the game of tennis year round. Provides an avenue for the children to learn teamwork, the understanding and acceptance of rules, courtesy and court etiquette, enjoyable exercise and physical fitness activities, nutrition programs, improved self-esteem, and exposure to diversity (geographical, economic and ethnic) as a result of fairfield county league play and travel. Historically our children have achieved junior usta rankings and school scholarships. Our tennis program is 4 star (highest possible) rated by the united states tennis association junior tennis division.
education/life skills program: includes academic standard setting and monitoring and tutoring, educational support, and continuous work on presentation and interpersonal skills. Specific services provided include individual supplemental support from volunteer teachers & mentors, college preparation including sat preparation courses at no cost, admissions process counseling (including financial aid counseling). Ngt has achieved a 100% high school graduation rate.
career/leadership program: guidance and support for matriculating college students including scholarship and tuition grants. Paid positions as jr. Coaches in our tennis program for our older participants as a stepping stone to the private job market, placement of participants in summer tennis club teaching jobs. These activities promote development of self-esteem, responsibility, and confidence to be better prepared for the job market. Networking with board members & volunteers, including efforts in fundraising activities, establish career paths beyond tennis.