Washington, DC— In the final days of the 110th Congress, the House of Representatives unanimously passed a resolution (H. Res. 1413) acknowledging the accomplishments and goals of the Youth Impact Program (YIP).  The Youth Impact Program, founded by Riki Ellison, a ten-year veteran of the National Football League and three-time Super Bowl Champion, combines the skills and discipline of football and academics that at-risk minority youth will need to pursue a productive future.

Thirty-one members of Congress cosponsored the resolution, including a number of Members of Congress from California and Louisiana.  This year, the third year of the Youth Impact Program, the University of Southern California (USC) and Tulane University hosted over 200 youths in a six-week intensive program. 

Congresswoman Diane E. Watson, the principal sponsor of the resolution whose congressional district includes USC, issued the following statement:

“I am honored to be associated with the Youth Impact Program.  I am also pleased that USC is a key partner in hosting the YIP Program for the third consecutive year.  This past summer, over 100 inner-city young men, ages 9-12, participated in a six-week program that teaches academic and life skills through the discipline of organized football.  In addition to USC’s participation, I am also pleased to note that the New Orleans Saints and Tulane University have played a critical role in expanding the YIP to New Orleans where this year another 100 young men participated in the program on Tulane’s campus.

“I commend YIP’s founder, Riki Ellison, for his commitment and dedication to helping at-risk youth achieve a brighter and productive future.  Professional athletics in our nation has become a major revenue generator with many athletes garnering millions of dollars each year.  It is very encouraging to see a former NFL player, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, other professional NFL players, and powerhouse football universities such as USC and Tulane giving back to their communities in a manner that will pay long-term dividends beyond the football field.”

In addition to its six-week intensive summer program, the YIP provides year-round mentoring to it participants, which is a proven formula for building success.  In the coming years, the program will be expanded to every city with a NFL franchise.

The Youth Impact Program receives primary support from the NFL’s National Football Youth Fund.