This season at Activities Beyond the Classroom has been one of generosity, impact, and inspiration. From the soccer fields to school hallways, from donations to leadership, our work continues to remind us of the power of community. Here’s a look at some of the highlights that show what’s possible when we come together for Cincinnati’s youth!
Every child deserves a chance to play—and this year, we took a huge step forward in making that a reality. Thanks to the incredible generosity of donors, Cincinnati Public Schools soccer players from kindergarten through 12th grade will step onto the field next season with everything they need.
A $46,000 donation provided full equipment, ensuring no student has to miss out due to financial barriers. This donation wasn’t just about soccer gear—it was about opportunity, confidence, and belonging. When kids step onto the field in matching gear, they feel proud of who they are and what they represent. Together, we are leveling the playing field and building memories that extend far beyond the game.
Back-to-school season is always filled with excitement, and this year, Cincinnati Bengals player Dax Hill made it even brighter for Rockdale Academy families. Partnering with ABC, Hill and his team set up a special booth and handed out 250 backpacks filled with school supplies, helping students start the year prepared and confident.
The event, led by Heather, Rockdale’s ABC Resource Coordinator, was full of school spirit, smiles, and community pride. Families left with more than supplies—they left knowing their city is behind them. This event perfectly blended the excitement of the Bengals with the heart of education, showing what’s possible when schools and communities unite.
Our Resource Coordinators are the heart of ABC’s mission, connecting students and families with the tools they need to thrive. During Resource Coordinator Week, we celebrated their incredible work and welcomed Tory Alexander to the ABC family.
From organizing school events to ensuring students have access to vital resources, our coordinators make things happen every day. Their impact shines through in every child who feels supported and seen. We’re proud to honor their dedication and the difference they make across CPS.
This season also brought incredible recognition and support through grants that will allow ABC to expand its reach and deepen its impact:
Both grants represent more than funding—they represent a commitment to building equity, creativity, and confidence for CPS students. We are grateful to the Ohio Arts Council and the Aerie Real Foundation for believing in this mission and helping us create brighter futures.
Strong leadership fuels growth, and this year we were thrilled to welcome Christopher Mattress and Leslie Mooney to our Board of Directors and Amanda Randolph and David Gerndt to our team as Director of Finance and Managing Director of Marketing . Their vision, expertise, and passion for education will guide ABC into its next chapter—strengthening our impact and ensuring we stay focused on what matters most: Cincinnati Public School students.
This fall, ABC hosted our Mellotone Leadership Social, an evening that brought together leaders, partners, and supporters to celebrate the progress we’ve made and the future we’re building together. The room was filled with energy, ideas, and renewed commitment to CPS students.
It was a powerful reminder that when leaders come together, real change happens. The best is yet to come—and we’re excited to keep building this momentum for Cincinnati’s youth.
From sports and school supplies to leadership and the arts, this season has shown us the incredible power of community. Together, we’ve removed barriers, expanded opportunities, and created lasting memories for CPS students and families.
We are deeply grateful to our donors, partners, staff, and supporters who make this work possible. This is what community looks like. This is what equity in action feels like. And this is why we’ll keep going—until every child has the opportunities they deserve.
Until next time, let’s keep building futures together!
