ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – A local nonprofit is offering at-risk youth in a troubled area of Atlanta a path toward a brighter future through the discipline and structure of boxing. Atlanta Phoenix Boxing Club, operating as part of Big Fish Outreach Ministries, aims to steer children away from negative influences and toward positive life choices.
co-executive director Marlon Richardson explained, “Someone has to show them the way, and that’s what we’re trying to do.” He and his wife,Umunique’Danielle,founded the program to provide hope and guidance to youth who may or else feel lost.
The program, serving approximately 15 students at a time, focuses on conflict resolution and emotional regulation. “It helps them navigate their anger. It helps them to control themselves,” Umunique’Danielle said. Many participants, ages 12-to-21, arrive at Atlanta Phoenix facing challenges at home or within the juvenile justice system.
The Richardsons’ commitment is deeply personal; Umunique’Danielle’s son experienced involvement with the wrong crowd and is now under probation supervision. This experiance fuels their dedication to the program.Participants themselves attest to the positive impact of boxing.Fourteen-year-old Jermise Smith described it as “a form of letting out stuff without going the wrong way,” while Jyhid caldwell added, “I like boxing, because I can get all my anger out punching the bag.”
Beyond physical training, Atlanta Phoenix Boxing Club provides comprehensive support, including assistance with obtaining high school diplomas. Marlon Richardson emphasizes the program’s core beliefs: “Be you, but be the best version of you.”
The organization actively encourages participants to choose “guns to gloves,” as umunique’Danielle put it, offering a constructive outlet and a chance to discover untapped potential. Smith noted, “Not only are they hard on me, but they see something in me that I don’t see in myself.”
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