The Drills and Skills concept was first envisioned in 1991 by James Hampton, the Recreational Specialist for the Rainier Community Centers Late Night Program under the leadership of Reco Bembry.  While working predominantly with Middle and High School aged youth in the South District of Seattle, Mr. Hampton noticed a large number of students who wanted to get involved in positive activities but who didn’t connect with the programs the community currently offered them.  If these youth were given the option to either participate in an after school enrichment program or just hang out on the corner the students would almost always choose the corner- even though they knew it was not a safe or smart thing to do.

James felt that if he could connect these students' recreational interests while at the same time engaging them in structured, curriculum-based activities, they could gain successful life skills.  Thus the model for Drills and Skills was created, connecting the dots between recreation and education as a model for success with at-risk youth.

Dear sir or madam,

Drills and Skills is a dynamic, diverse and empowering program. Celebrating our 29th year, we are recognized for our outstanding sports training and academic programs, cultural diversity and openness to people from all walks of life. 

• Served over 5,600 youth in the past 29 years.
• Our youth come from many zip codes and represent a variety of faith traditions and cultural and family backgrounds. 
• Over 90% are children of color. 
• Program locations: Rainier Beach CC,  Yesler CC, Garfield Teen Life Center and Summit Sierra Public School and Southeast Network.

As we slowly restart the program, we find ourselves in a little predicament. Our goal has always been to provide a quality program at a very low cost to families.  Since the closures due to Covid-19, we have not been able to run our usual programs nor receive the funding we would normally get during that time. We are seeking donations to keep this program running and to keep the cost low for those who want to participate.

 Due to the seriousness of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have to move to a virtual fundraiser. 

We hope you will consider partnering with us. Thank you for your consideration and support.