LIMA, OH (WLIO) - A block party on Saturday encouraged kids to make smart choices this summer.
Soldiers of Honor welcomed families to their 4th annual Safe Summer Block Party. Kids could watch and participate in boxing demonstrations and learn all about how the sport is not only good exercise but also improves mental health by turning negative emotions like anger into positive things like boosted self esteem and focus. There were also giveaways of toys like a jump rope and a bicycle to give kids something to play with outdoors, and local non-profits were available to share resources.
"The message that we're trying to send to them is there are healthy alternatives to some of the different things that they get into. Delinquency is higher in the summer months because it's warmer and kids are out of school, so we want to let them know you can have fun, you can have fun in your backyard, you can have a party at home. You can have a safe summer; there are resources in the community for you," said Veronica McLaurine, the assistant coach and administrator for Soldiers of Honor.
Soldiers of Honor will be hosting a summer boxing bootcamp for ages 5 to 18. To learn more, you can call them at (419) 204-8859.
