Open Door Sports recognized as a NYSS Champion to Promote Participation in Youth Sports

Written by: Sarah Albus Posted on: February 25, 2022 Tagged: NYSS Special Needs sports inclusion HHS ODPHP Blog: News

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Open Door Sports Inc. becomes an NYSS Champion

Washington, DC – The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is pleased to recognize Open Door Sports Inc. “Open Door Sports” as a National Youth Sports Strategy (NYSS) Champion.

As a NYSS Champion, Open Door Sports has demonstrated their organization’s commitment to support safe, fun, inclusive, developmentally appropriate, and accessible youth sports opportunities. Open Door Sports is recognized along with other NYSS Champions on health.gov as part of a growing network of organizations partnering with HHS to improve the youth sports landscape in America.

“We know children who obtain regular physical activity gain important physical and mental health benefits, which are more important than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic,” explains RADM Paul Reed, M.D., Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health at HHS. “I’m thrilled to acknowledge the work of the NYSS Champions who are helping to foster a lifelong love of sports and physical activity for our Nation’s youth.”

“As an organization dedicated to giving ALL children regardless of perceived ability or financial status an opportunity to play, we are truly honored to be recognized by ODPHP and HHS as a National Youth Sports Strategy Champion”, states Open Door Sports Executive Director, Sarah Albus.

The NYSS is a federal roadmap with actionable strategies for youth, adults who interact with youth, organizations, communities, and public policy makers to increase participation in youth sports and improve the youth sports experience. The NYSS vision is that one day all youth will have the opportunity, motivation, and access to play sports. NYSS Champions are recognized for working towards achieving this vision.

About Open Door Sports Inc.

Open Door Sports (ODS) was founded in January 2017 to provide free high quality after-school sports programs, leadership opportunities and positive experiences to underserved children in the Metro Washington DC region - specifically kids with disabilities and children from low income homes.ODS comes to the kids in their communities, providing them a chance to get on the field and learn sports in an adapted, inclusive and supportive environment.

NYSS Champion is a service mark of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Used with permission. Participation by Open Door Sports Inc. does not imply endorsement by HHS/ODPHP.

About the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

ODPHP plays a vital role in keeping the Nation healthy through Healthy People 2030, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition, and other programs, services, and education activities. ODPHP is part of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health (OASH) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. To learn more about ODPHP visit health.gov or follow @HealthGov on Twitter.