Overview

Philadelphia's SquashSmarts is an award-winning free out-of-school time youth mentoring program improving the lives of public school students. Incorporated in November 2000, SquashSmarts is a 501c3 non-profit academic and athletic mentoring program with a proven track record of keeping kids in school, in shape, and on track for graduation. SquashSmarts works with 6th-12th grade students who are selected based on commitment, effort and attitude, not athletic or academic ability. Operating out of two facilities, the Lenfest Center (North Philadelphia) and Drexel’s Daskalakis Athletic Center (West Philadelphia), students attend practices three days each week focusing on SquashSmarts’ Five Pillars: (1) Academic Support, (2) Squash Instruction, (3) Fitness and Nutrition, (4) Personal Achievement, and (5) Leadership. Students also participate in competitive squash opportunities, community service projects, cultural outings, and special events. A seven-year commitment to each child ensures long-term success by providing a team, a family, a safety net and a sense of belonging. Strong one-on-one relationships with staff and volunteers are the key to fostering every child’s success and breaking the cycle of Philadelphia’s public school drop-out rate. Put simply, SquashSmarts is giving kids their best shot!