The Opportunities

Scientific research has linked participation in sports, such as figure skating, to: 1) better physical health (decreases blood pressure and cholesterol, lowers risk for obesity, coronary heart disease, osteoporosis, and certain cancers); 2) better mental health (reduces anxiety and depression levels, enhances self-esteem and confidence); 3) better physiological health (assists in the development of motor skills at appropriate stages of neurodevelopment); and 4) better social interactions (increases confidence and success in academic and social situations).

According to the New York Women's Foundation, the programs that most effectively combat the above-mentioned risks and help girls flourish emphasize positive development; treat girls as resources rather than potential problems; provide an opportunity for girls to participate in girls-only programming; and work with girls over time rather than serving them for only one year. Despite The New York Women's Foundation's evidence, the risks faced by girls entering adolescence, and the benefits of participation in sports, relatively few development programs focus exclusively on girls, and, of those, even fewer include a general sports and recreation component.

Figure Skating in Harlem has all of these attributes that are so often lacking in other youth development programs. By emphasizing physical and emotional health as well as academic achievement, Figure Skating in Harlem is making a critical difference in our students' lives. We have witnessed young girls develop into intelligent, empowered, self-confident and graceful young women, both on the ice and off.

What activities are available for the girls?