City Gear's Sole School Program Elevates High School Basketball Across 10 States

City Gear, a leading lifestyle sneaker and streetwear retailer, has once again demonstrated its commitment to youth sports and education through its 2024 Sole School program. This initiative, now in its ninth year, has reached 21 high schools and over 625 student-athletes across 10 states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas. With contributions exceeding $150,000, the program addresses critical needs such as team gear, travel expenses, and athletic equipment, while also offering mentoring and potential job placements to foster holistic development.

The significance of the Sole School program extends beyond financial assistance. Ben Knighten, President of City Gear, highlights the initiative's role in building connections with local schools and creating opportunities for student-athletes. This approach has garnered positive feedback from educators and coaches, such as Coach Clifton Terrell from North Forest High School in Houston, Texas, and Wade Mason, Athletic Director at St Augustine High School in New Orleans, Louisiana, who have witnessed firsthand the program's transformative impact on their students and communities.

City Gear's dedication to community support is further evidenced by its broader mission, which includes initiatives like Cutz4Kids, reinforcing its position as a pillar of local engagement. The retailer's unique blend of offering trendsetting fashion from brands like Nike, Jordan, New Balance, and True Religion, alongside its commitment to social responsibility, sets it apart in the retail landscape. Testimonials from City Gear's leadership, including Irvin Bernard and Eric Freeman, underscore the profound effect of the Sole School program on young athletes' lives and aspirations.

As the Sole School program continues to expand, its success serves as a model for corporate-community partnerships, illustrating how businesses can play a pivotal role in youth development. By investing in the next generation of athletes and leaders, City Gear and Nike are not only enhancing their brand reputations but also fostering a culture of support and engagement that benefits communities nationwide. The program's inclusive reach, from Alabama Aerospace & Aviation High School to North Forest High School, reflects its commitment to making a difference across diverse backgrounds and needs.

The enduring impact of the Sole School program underscores the importance of corporate social responsibility in today's retail sector. City Gear's initiative exemplifies how companies can contribute to societal progress while inspiring others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of positive change in communities across the country.