Youth Recreation Programs

Under the leadership of Cassandra Jackson, Fort Pierce Recreation Specialist, the Fort Pierce Firehawks youth football organization teamed up with Kids and Pros, a non profit sports organization founded in 2002 by former Atlanta Falcons players Buddy Curry and Bobby Butler to bring together NFL players and youth 7 – 13 years of age in their communities, to teach fundamental football skills and character building values in our community at a free clinic June 24, 2023, at Lawnwood Stadium, 1302 Virginia Ave, Fort Pierce. 195 kids registered for this 2nd annual program that included basic skills instruction, game changing behaviors, a parents meeting, autograph opportunities, and instruction for coaches of youth teams. Kids and Pros has brought this program to over 80,000 young athletes nationally. Local participants declare it a resounding success.

Fort Pierce Firehawks Cheer Commissioner Sharee McBride, along with volunteer cheer coaches and staff, hosted their 4th Annual Cheer Clinic June 17, 2023, at the Fort Pierce Recreation Center, 903 S. 21st St, Fort Pierce, for registered cheerleaders for the upcoming 2023 Pop Warner youth football season. The day long clinic focused on fundamentals of cheerleading, team building, and life skills. Special additional training based on age and current skill level was provided to help participants improve their techniques for advancement to higher levels of Show Cheer and Sideline Cheer with Pom, Theme and Dance skills.

Fort Pierce Police Department takes Courageous Kids Sailing

Officers and civilian personnel from the Fort Pierce Police Department joined with members of the Treasure Coast Youth Sailing Foundation on June 10 for a fantastic day for members of the Courageous Kids program.

Ernie Small, President of the Sailing Foundation, two of his instructors and volunteers from the Police Department worked with the youth participants at Jaycee Park to learn about sailing and enjoy some quality time together on the Indian River. By the end of the day, everybody wanted to stay on the water – even those who had been a bit apprehensive at first!

Leaders expected more than 100 youth participants this year based on past attendance. The Courageous Kids participating are often new to water based activity and the program gives them new experiences, new confidence, and new beliefs in what the future can hold.

The Courageous Kids program facilitates building positive relations between our youth, the community and law enforcement. The program is dedicated to helping our children and youths gain confidence and become courageous in their decision-making. By introducing them to different sports, providing positive educational experiences and countless mentoring opportunities, they can feel comfortable talking and interacting with police officers. Our officers, civilian personnel and volunteers spend time reminding our Courageous Kids that they are valued, appreciated and vital to our future. A weekly mentorship program well attended by enthusiastic and involved kids takes place every Tuesday from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at First Step Park, located at Avenue G and North 31st Street in Fort Pierce.