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Kane Bradfield, founder and executive director of Clockwork Youth Academy, is opening up an after-school program dedicated to offering underprivileged children, seven to 17, with opportunities for mentorship and athletic training.

“The foundation of what we do is athletic skill development, along with youth fitness,” Bradfield said. “Our mission with our programming is to assist the youth with achieving a balanced and successful life as they transition into adulthood.”

Currently, the academy is raising money for the program and has partnered with Franklin Forest Elementary, Hogansville Elementary and Burwell Psychoeducational Center, to identify 10 children who would benefit from the program.

FFES principal, Lindsey Binion said in picking students for the program, their goal was to start with the students that already ride the Franklin Forest bus with a route close to Clockwork.

“We have been working with our administration staff, school counselor, school social worker, and teachers to identify students who might benefit from the services that Mr. Bradfield’s Academy is going to offer,” Binion said. “We believe that every student can be successful and it’s the village behind them that helps them find ways to shine. By partnering with Clockwork, we are building an even bigger village to challenge and support our students.”

Binion said the program will give students a chance to be an even better student.

“Whether it’s athletic, academic, or social/emotional, this academy will provide services to help students grow in one or more of these areas,” Binion said.

Once in the program, Bradfield said the children will learn exercise training, athletic development, skill development and learn the basics of basketball, football, volleyball and more.

“We believe sports saves lives,” Bradfield said. “Right now, we’re aiming to start the first after-school program at the elementary age and work up to middle school in high school. Collectively, our overall goal is to ultimately service the whole West Georgia and East Alabama area.”

Bradfield said along with athletic development, the children will be able to receive counseling and tutoring. 

“First thing that we will focus on at the facility is youth training. We will also provide in-house therapy and tutoring or some form of education,” Bradfield said. “We want to make sure the kids are not having school, after school. We want to make sure that the education they are receiving is practical but fun.”

The goal the academy seeks to raise is $16,200. Bradfield said the amount will fully cover 30 children for the duration of the program. He said the money will also be used to provide food and to find the right trainers for the children.

The after-school program will be held March 23 — May 24 for a total of three months, costing $180 per month per individual. He also said interested parties can sponsor individual children.

“I’ve been in this industry since 2008, and I’ve seen the good it does for a kid to have something to focus on, something to look forward to. Not only will it keep them out of trouble, but it will give them something positive to hold on to,” Bradfield said. 

For more information on the academy or to donate visit Clockwork Youth Academy  on Facebook.