Roanoke Police Department has teamed up with The Summit Sportsplex to bring free basketball open gyms to local youth, offering a unique chance for teens to interact with officers in a relaxed setting.
Starting July 13, the sessions will run every Monday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., taking place at the sportsplex located at 2002 Highland Farm Road NW in Roanoke. The program is open to participants aged 12 to 18.
The initiative is part of the department’s Police Reaching Out Through Sports (PROS) program, which seeks to build trust between law enforcement and the community through friendly competition, mentorship and positive engagement.
By providing a safe, structured environment for sport, the open gyms aim to encourage healthy lifestyles while giving young people a constructive outlet and a platform to develop relationships with officers.
A Summer of Connection on the Court
The collaboration underscores a growing trend across the region where police departments leverage athletics to bridge gaps with youth, and the upcoming weeks will test how such programs can shape attitudes and perceptions.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to enroll their children, as the sessions are completely free and require no prior registration beyond showing up during the designated times.
As the summer progresses, the police department plans to evaluate the program’s impact, potentially expanding the model to other neighborhoods and sports.