Join me in preparing youth for life and leadership through sport with LiFEsports.

"To prepare youth for life and leadership through sport."

Hello, my name is Matthew Okocha and I’m a psychology major with a criminology minor at Ohio State. I’m on the journey toward a legal career rooted in justice and prevention. Through my studies, I’ve learned that youth crime is not only a legal issue. It often stems from boredom, a lack of direction, and absence of positive outlets.

This issue is personal to me because when I was a kid, sports gave me structure and taught me discipline, so I know firsthand how important programs like this can be in shaping a young person’s path. That’s why I chose the LiFEsports Youth Development Fund. The LiFEsports Initiative is a nationally recognized program that seeks to promote healthy and positive development through intentionally designed sport and recreation-based activities in hopes of addressing risk factors and barriers, while producing real outcomes. I have volunteered with LiFEsports many times and have seen the impact it has on the lives of young people. These kids gain essential life skills like self-control, effort, teamwork, and social responsibility (S.E.T.S.), all while staying active and engaged.

Research shows these benefits go beyond the field. LiFEsports participants experience less peer conflict and neighborhood violence, and many come from under-resourced communities where structured opportunities are rare. As someone interested in law and social well-being, I find it inspiring that a program like this addresses the root causes of criminal behavior by investing in youth development.

By supporting the LiFEsports fund, you are helping build safer, stronger communities and giving young people the chance to channel their energy into leadership, growth, and positive impact. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to stay out of trouble, discover their potential, and build a brighter future.

Thank you!