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Teaching kids through sports is mentor's goal
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COACH: Rodney Smith, who founded Future for Kids, an outreach program for children that emphasizes the importance of education through sports camps, received a full scholarship to the University of Nebraska to play football under coach Tom Osborne.
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For the past 17 years, Rodney Smith has been living his dream of helping children in the Valley get involved in sports and understanding the importance of education.
Smith grew up in the inner city of Denver. He was a troublemaker and didn't like school, he said. But he was given an opportunity to participate in a sports program where he met athletes and teachers that ultimately changed his life.
"A teacher in seventh grade saw something in me and believed in me," Smith said.
From that point on, Smith paid attention in school and became active in the community by coaching 6-year-olds in baseball leagues.
He went on to receive a full scholarship to the University of Nebraska to play football under coach Tom Osborne.
In 1991, Smith wanted to create a program for at-risk children in the Valley. Smith founded Future for Kids, an outreach program for children that emphasizes the importance of education through sports camps.
The program brings children closer to the athletes and teaches them life and sports lessons.
"We make sure it's fun for the kids, but we incorporate multiple lectures," Smith said.
The organization has affected more than 129,000 East Valley children since its inception.
"There are obstacles we face in our lives and education gives us the ability to overcome those obstacles," he said.
Tara Jennings has worked at Future for Kids as an administrative assistance since March 2008.
"He is passionate about helping kids," she said.
Smith is working on building a national mentorship program for children who lost their mother or father while fighting for this country.
"Every day I wake up I can make a difference," he said.
The Tribune is profiling the 2008 Frances Young Community Heroes. The award pays tribute to those whose volunteer service directly benefits Scottsdale residents or organizations.
Oct. 4: Gerald Costello
Tuesday: Sonnie Kirtley
Wednesday: Edward LeBeau
Friday: Gladys Olson
Saturday: Rodney Smith
Sunday: Chris Vicari
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