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News

Building Momentum: A Season of Community, Support, and Growth

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!

A Winning Season for CPS Soccer

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.

Dax Hill Brings Bengals Spirit to Rockdale

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.

Celebrating our Resource Coordinators

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.

Expanding Opportunities Through Grants

This season also brought incredible recognition and support through grants that will allow ABC to expand its reach and deepen its impact:

  • Ohio Arts Council FY2026 Arts Partnership Grant
    ABC received a $16,548 award through the ArtStart program, which will support ABC’s Annual International Jazz Festival, connecting artists, families, and students through music and keeping the arts accessible for all.
 
 
 
 
 
  • Aerie Real Foundation Community Grant
    A $5,000 grant will provide free hygiene products to approximately 8,780 CPS girls, ensuring no student misses class or activities due to lack of access.

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.

Welcoming New Leadership

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.

An Evening of Connection: Mellotone Leadership Social

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.

Looking Ahead

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!

News

A Beautiful Night In Kennedy Heights

On Monday, May 19th, The Kennedy Heights and Wildcat community was out in full force this week for a vibrant, joy-filled evening at the second annual Kennedy Heights Block Party hosted at Woodford Academy and Ashley Davis. From music and games to community art, the event offered something for everyone. Community efforts like these bring neighbors together in a powerful celebration of connection and local pride. This yearly tradition has quickly become a highlight for our neighborhood, bringing together families, friends, and supporters from across Cincinnati.

 

A Night of Joy, Art, and Connection

From the moment the guests arrived, it was clear this was more than just a block party. Children and families gathered around tables with art activities, engaging in hands-on creativity. Others took to the sidewalk to fill the pavement with colorful chalk drawings and inspiring messages. Nearby, there were giant inflatable games and a dartboard, keeping the energy high.

The atmosphere was buzzing with laughter, music, and the unmistakable spirit of community. Food, fun, and meaningful connections flowed throughout the evening, reminding everyone why events like this matter to communities.

Here are some of the great activities provided at the Kennedy Heights Block Party:

  • Free Hot Dogs and Food Trucks – Everyone enjoyed a delicious bite, with hot dogs on the house and local food trucks serving up crowd favorites.
  • Arts and Crafts Zone – Kids and families got creative with painting, drawing, and fun DIY projects that encouraged imagination and togetherness.
  • Toy and Hygiene Giveaways – With the help of generous sponsors and donors, we were able to provide free toys for children and hygiene kits for families in need.
  • Local Vendors – A showcase of amazing small businesses from the neighborhood. Shopping locally helps our community thrive.
  • Dance Performance — Woodford’s Dance Team sponsored by ABC
  • Circus Performance — Red Nose Circus and Circus Club Students 

A Surprise Visit from Mayor Aftab Pureval

The night received a special boost when Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval stopped by to join the celebration. The mayor spent time talking with students and residents, taking photos, and sharing the excitement of the evening. He later posted about the event on social media, writing:

 

“A beautiful night at the Kennedy Heights block party at Woodford! Thanks to everyone who came out to join the fun.”

 

Mayor Pureval’s presence highlighted the significance of community-led initiatives like this one, and his support was warmly received by families and organizers alike.

Highlighting Local Leadership

ABC Resource Coordinator Ashley Davis, who helped host the event alongside the Woodford team, was featured in the mayor’s post and praised by attendees for her leadership and commitment to the community. Her presence, along with many other dedicated local advocates, served as a reminder of the impact strong, compassionate leadership has on youth and families. Neighborhoods need a space where they can come together, celebrate, and feel seen, and RC Ashley put in the work to make this possible.

The success of the Kennedy Heights Block Party would not have been possible without the many volunteers, parents, local leaders, and community partners who contributed their time, talent, and resources. A special thank you to Cincinnati Public Schools, whose continued support plays a vital role in making events like these happen.

Building Stronger Communities, Together

At ABC, we believe that building strong communities starts with bringing people together. Whether it’s on the field or at a block party, our mission is to create spaces where Cincinnati Public School youth and families can thrive and feel a deep sense of belonging. We’re proud to stand beside leaders like RC Ashley and neighborhoods like Kennedy Heights, who show us what community truly means.

A special thank you to:

  • Kennedy Heights Church of Christ – for their ongoing dedication to serving this community
  • Members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. – for their presence, leadership, and service throughout the day
  • Community Volunteers – Your time, energy, and love helped keep the event running smoothly and made every guest feel welcomed.
  • Woodford Academy Staff Volunteers – Thank you for showing up and supporting this neighborhood beyond the classroom. Your dedication to students and families is deeply appreciated.

Stay tuned for more events, stories, and opportunities to get involved. Together, we are stronger.

News

A Legacy in Action: Honoring Dean Richard “Dick” E. Friedman

March 29, 2025, was a night to remember! Hosted by ABC, this special evening brought together friends, family, educators, community leaders, and long-time supporters to celebrate an incredible legacy. The lasting legacy of Dean Richard “Dick” Friedman is one whose commitment to service and equity has shaped lives across Cincinnati. 

Held at the Kenwood Country Club in honor of Dick’s past 16 years of service as Board President of ABC, the evening was filled with heartfelt speeches, powerful tributes, and stories that reminded us why this work is so important for the Cincinnati community. It was more than just a celebration of leadership, it was the launch of something lasting: The Dean Richard E. and Dr. Gail H. Friedman Fund, a fund dedicated to ensuring every Cincinnati Public School student has access to life-changing opportunities. 

A Night of Inspiration and Impact

From the first toast to the final round of applause, the atmosphere was filled with gratitude, respect, and momentum. Guests enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and uplifting conversations as they reflected on the impact Dick has made not only as a leader of ABC but as a tireless advocate for education, youth, and community. 


Speakers Sally Grimes, Executive Director of ABC, Charley Frank, ABC Board President, and Chris Dalambakis, Manager at Steelcase and friend of Dick, shared stories about Dick’s dedication and influence from boardrooms to classrooms and from nonprofits to neighborhood initiatives. One message rang loud and clear: Dick Friedman is a man who turns vision into action and values into impact.

“Nonprofit organizations are only as strong as their leadership,” said Sally Grimes, Executive Director of ABC. “With Dick Friedman at the helm of Activities Beyond the Classroom for so many years, ABC has flourished, expanding its impact to the children of CPS while continually evaluating and improving internal processes. His steady and strong leadership is what made this growth possible.” 

Who is Dean Richard "Dick" Friedman

To know Dick is to know dedication. He spent over four decades at the University of Cincinnati, shaping generations as a professor, administrator, and mentor. As Dean of the McMicken College of Arts and Sciences, Assistant to the President, and an early architect of UC’s Sports Administration program, Dick didn’t just teach, he transformed. 

 

His leadership footprint outside the university is equally profound. He served on the boards of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, the Art Academy, the American Heart Association, the Cincinnati Tennis Hall of Fame, and many more. He helped launch nonprofits, merge synagogues, and raise millions in support of causes he believed in. 

 

And perhaps most memorably, alongside his late wife Dr. Gail H. Friedman, Dick shared a passion for equity, education, and service. Their legacy continues through this fund, a tribute to their unwavering belief in Cincinnati Public School youth.

Thank You to Our Community

We also extend heartfelt thanks to our event sponsors, community partners, the ABC team, and our main sponsors House of Joy, Kenwood Country Club, Chris and Judy Dalambakis, All Occasions, and Fitz the Occasion who made this evening possible. Every detail, every contribution, and every gesture of support moved this mission forward in a powerful way. 

We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended this special evening and helped make it a true celebration of leadership and purpose. 

To those who donated, sponsored, or spread the word, thank you for your belief in ABC’s mission and your support of the Friedman legacy. Your generosity ensures that Cincinnati Public School students will continue to access the kinds of opportunities that transform lives. 

Thank you, Dick Friedman, for showing us what servant leadership looks like. And thank you to everyone for helping move this mission forward. This is what legacy in motion looks like, and you can donate to the Dean Richard E. and Dr. Gail H. Friedman Fund here. 

Until next time, let’s keep building futures together!

News

Leaders on the Field and in the Community: ABC Athletic Directors Honored

This season, we’re celebrating not just the athletes but also the exceptional leaders who shape their success behind the scenes. On April 22, 2025, three of our dedicated Athletic Directors were honored by the Southwest Ohio Athletic Directors Association (SWOADA) and the Ohio Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (OIAAA). ABC is thrilled to announce that these staff members have been recognized for their incredible service, commitment, and community impact on our youth.

A Triple Win for Student Success

From middle school fields to high school stadiums, our athletic directors have gone above and beyond to create meaningful experiences for their athletes. These awards are more than just recognition—they reflect years of hard work, heart, and hustle.

Paul Brownfield - SWOADA/OIAAA Athletic Director of the Year

 

The SWOADA/OIAAA Athletic Director of the Year award is reserved for individuals who exemplify the highest standards in their profession. Paul has led his community with consistency and care, influencing countless student-athletes through strategic planning, advocacy for equity in sports, and dedication to creating a positive school culture. His influence and contributions to his students and their success are felt far and wide, making him truly deserving of this honor.

As Athletic Director at Aiken High School, Paul Brownfield has consistently led with passion, integrity, and a deep commitment to student development. His leadership has not only elevated athletic programming but also left a lasting mark on students, coaches, and the Aiken community. He supports student growth academically, athletically, and socially, ensuring these skills stay with them for life. Under his guidance, the Aiken community has continued to thrive.

Jake Buchanan - SWOADA Middle School Athletic Director of the Year

Assistant Athletic Director at Walnut Hills High School, Jake Buchanan oversees the middle school athletic programs and serves hundreds of students. He has created a culture of opportunity for middle school athletes through mentorship and consistent leadership. From practices to community games, Jake’s belief in his students has built a foundation of confidence and teamwork that will last well beyond their school years. His leadership has been instrumental in building strong developmental sports programs that serve as a springboard for students entering high school athletics.

 

This award recognizes excellence in managing middle school athletics, including student engagement, coach development, and fostering a culture of sportsmanship and opportunity. Jake has consistently demonstrated the ability to organize competitive yet inclusive programs, prioritize student well-being, and create systems that support growth at every level. His dedication and leadership have built a thriving community, and ABC is proud to have him on our team.

Shay Steele - SWOADA/NFHS Citation Award

Shay Steele, an Athletic Director at Walnut Hills, was honored with the prestigious SWOADA/NFHS Citation Award—one of the highest distinctions in interscholastic athletics. This award recognizes individuals who have made a significant impact not only in their schools but across the Southwest District and beyond. Shay’s tireless dedication to students and athletics continues to drive progress throughout the community.

Her contributions extend far beyond typical responsibilities. She plays a key role in shaping athletic policy, leads professional development efforts for her peers, and is a passionate advocate for inclusion in sports. Shay’s exceptional time, effort, and energy devoted to Southwest District athletics have made a lasting difference in the lives of countless students. Her commitment to excellence has helped shape the future of high school athletics in our community, and we are honored to celebrate her achievements.

More Than Trophies

While these awards are impressive, it’s the people and passion behind them that make this moment truly special. They affirm what the ABC community already knows: behind every great program is an exceptional leader. Paul, Jake, and Shay represent the core of what ABC stands for—creating opportunities, fostering growth, and championing every student’s potential.

These recognitions are not the end of the story—they are just the beginning. With leaders like these guiding the way, ABC continues to expand, strengthen, and build, ensuring brighter futures for every student we serve. From all of us at ABC: thank you, Paul, Jake, and Shay, for being models of excellence, service, and heart. You inspire not only our athletes but our entire organization to strive for greatness—on and off the field.

Here’s to continuing the work that matters.

News

A Grand Slam for the Community: Celebrating the Hunter Greene Youth Giveaway

Photos by Angie Lipscomb

March 28th 2025, is a day to remember! On this sunny Friday, the Madisonville Recreation Center was full of smiles, excitement, baseball, and community spirit! Over 800 kids, teams, and families showed up for the Hunter Green Youth Giveaway. This unforgettable event was hosted by Hunter Greene of the Cincinnati Reds, straight off the pitch from Opening Day. Greene partnered with ABC and others to celebrate community, baseball, and the power of giving back.

More Than Just Gear

This event was designed to give young athletes a chance to thrive—both on and off the field. Whether it was through access to quality equipment, meeting a role model, or simply enjoying a fun and uplifting atmosphere, this was an afternoon full of opportunity, and it absolutely delivered. From the moment the doors opened, the energy was electric. Kids aged 8 to 17 lined up in anticipation, dressed in their team jerseys and Reds’ gear, eager to meet one of their sports heroes and walk away with some brand-new baseball gear.

Thanks to JustBats, Cincinnati Recreation Commission, Full Circle, CAA Sports, HG103, and the Cincinnati Reds, ABC and Hunter Greene provided the youth with high-quality bats, gloves, cleats, and other essentials for baseball. We were able to break down barriers and open doors for future players.

But this event was about so much more than just the gear.

“Today was the best day ever,” one team-spirited player said, proving how inspiration can come from community. Greene also shared how baseball opened many doors for him in life and that he wants children to have every opportunity to succeed in their dreams. Throughout the afternoon, kids had a chance to connect one-on-one with Greene, who not only gave out equipment but also shared words of encouragement, signed autographs, and posed for countless photos. For many young athletes in attendance, meeting a Major League Baseball star was nothing short of a dream come true.

“He’s my favorite pitcher, and I want to be like him,” another baseball lover shared. Ambitions like these show how one small meeting can be a powerful motivator. ABC was able to bring so many young athletes together and give them the push to keep exploring their passions. The giveaway was accompanied by live music from DJ Essential, who kept spirits high with upbeat tracks, and delicious ice cream from Graeters, who provided free scoops for everyone in attendance.

A Legacy Beyond the Ballfield

None of this would have been possible without the support of the Cincinnati Recreation Commission and other passionate organizations committed to investing in youth and uplifting communities. Together, we ensured the event was inclusive, accessible, and seamless for every family and team that walked through the doors. 

Greene is known for his work on and off the mound, as he has made it clear that community matters as much as baseball. His presence was filled with intention and care for Cincinnati youth.

From giveaways to good vibes, the Hunter Greene Youth Giveaway was a home run in every way, and its impact will echo long after the final bat was handed out. It reinforced the power of sports to unite, uplift, and inspire future generations. Events like this are why we do what we do, providing young people with opportunities to thrive, connect, and grow. As the event wrapped up, families left not only with gear but with renewed hope and passion. This is what community looks like, and at ABC, we are honored to work alongside athletes like Hunter Greene and community partners who believe in building something bigger than baseball. We look forward to continuing this momentum and creating even more unforgettable moments for Cincinnati youth.

Thank you, Hunter Greene and partners. You knocked it out of the park! And most of all, thank you to the kids who showed up, dreamed big, and reminded us why this work matters.

Until next time—keep swinging for the fences.