HAMPTON, Va. — School might be out of session for local kids but this summer they're learning some of the most valuable lessons outside the classroom. For 27 years, Vernon Lee and Carl Francis has used sports as a metaphor through establishing the Hampton Roads Youth Foundation, which provides educational, social and economic programs for youth in the Hampton Roads community.
Much of this teaching happens at the foundation's annual All Star camp at Hampton University, a two day event which took place over the weekend.
The two day symposium prepares high school athletes to be successful both on and off the field. Keynote speakers visit the camp to discuss financial education, mental wellness, NIL, leadership as well as how to manage a budget.
For co- founder Carl Francis, who graduated from Bethel High School and now works for the NFL Players Association, he's frequently reminded of the impact he's had on lives.
"When I meet a young person and years later they are a minister, they're a school administrator, they're a teacher, they're a fireman, some of them are professional athletes in and sports and some of them are in the front office and they say, 'Mr. Francis, I remember you. I went to your camp. Thank you so much for pouring into me. Its helped me become who I am today,'" he said. "That's the most rewarding part."