Youth Peace Olympics
The Louisiana Center for Health Equity and our partners are excited to announce that the Youth Peace Olympics is returning for its 13th year! This year’s programming will kick off with our opening event at Howell Park on Saturday, April 25.
We invite youth, families, and community members to join us for this free, family-friendly kickoff celebration. Attendees can expect a day filled with games, music, community engagement, and fun activities for all ages. This event marks the beginning of another impactful year of promoting peace, leadership, and positive youth development across our communities.
Please RSVP below to attend the kickoff and bring the whole family—we look forward to seeing you there!
Why YPO?
The Youth Peace Olympics is more than just a summer camp—it's a movement. Designed to empower youth with the tools to become leaders, resolve conflict peacefully, and build stronger communities, the program blends sports, teamwork, coaching, and fun with a strong message of peace and unity.
Each camp session offers youth the chance to:
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Learn non-violent conflict resolution strategies
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Engage in physical and team-building activities
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Participate in powerful workshops
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Connect with local mentors and community leaders
The Youth Peace Olympics (YPO) began as a South Baton Rouge and North Philadelphia collaboration under the watchful eye of the Rev. Mary L. Wade, Ph.D. and members of Building Respect in Communities (BRIC). The unique three-fold focus of the YPO that began in Philadelphia in 2011 are character-building, sportsmanship and commitment to peace and non-violence. With that focus, YPO, a youth violence prevention program for youth ages 10-17, began in the Baton Rouge area in 2014.
YPO offers a comprehensive program aimed at empowering and inspiring young minds to become leaders for positive change within their communities. The program is specifically designed to teach values such as nonviolent conflict resolution, financial literacy, civic responsibility, academic success and career development. Teens can also expect to participate in indoor and outdoor activities, such as sports, art, music, S.T.E.A.M. projects and more! Youth meet every fourth Saturday from May to August, and also enjoy field trips and extracurricular activities during the summer months. In September, YPO teens will have the opportunity to be celebrated and show off their talents during the Closing Ceremony.
Youth Peace Olympics 2024 Highlights
The Louisiana Center for Health Equity and partners extend our heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to making YPO 2024 a huge success! Congratulations to all participants!
OUR PARTNERS
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