New Dallas Youth Center To Offer Boxing For Kids

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DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - Police and officials in Dallas are hoping to reach teens through a new after-school program.

The intersection of Forest Lane and Audelia Road will soon be home to a center for children and youths in northeast Dallas and Lake Highlands. District 10 councilman Adam McGough said that the space will be available for kids ages 8 through 17, offering after-school programs and a boxing ring.

In previous years, McGough explained, the area has been in the top five crime areas of the city, and it is under-resourced. "It all starts with the kids, and we have to find something for them to do," said McGough.

The Apartment Association of Greater Dallas will help fund the project, the Dallas Parks and Recreation Department will staff the after-school programs, and Dallas Police Youth Outreach will handle the boxing ring.

"Boxing teaches the kids discipline and self-respect and self-confidence," added Sgt. Victor Reateria with the Dallas Police Department. The city has seen a lot of success in similar programs in the area, Reateria added.

The project is expected to be completed in March.