Jr Raptors teaming up
Youth football, cheerleading program joining Matteson library, police departments for first Community Day
On the surface, the Southland Jr Raptors are a youth football and cheerleading program. But the group has evolved into much more and now wants to foster community relations though a new event in the Matteson area.
On Saturday, the Jr Raptors will host their first Southland Community Day at Governors Trail Park in Matteson. The Jr Raptors began in 2015 as a nonprofit football and cheerleading program for ages 5 through 14.
“Our organization also connects with businesses and other organizations to mentor the kids” said Brenda Marshall, president of the Jr Raptors. “Our organization prepares them to be better in high school and puts them in a position for college scholarships as well.”
Besides showcasing the talents of area youngsters, Community Day has grown to include the Matteson Police Department and Matteson Public Library, as well as the YWCA and advocacy groups such as Taste for the Homeless and All Kids Matter.
“Usually every year we have a huge picnic that we invite family and friends to,” Marshall said. “This year we are inviting the community to focus on getting organizations such as the fire department, businesses and others to collaborate (on) a day for the kids.”
The picnic begins at 1 p.m. at Governors Trail Park, 21402 Governors Highway and will include music by DJ Will The Thrill, food, games, face painting, dancing, children’s aerobics and free book bags.
Last year the Jr Raptors didn’t have a season.
“With everyone getting out of COVID restrictions and hibernating for a year, we wanted to celebrate the kickoff to our season this year,” Marshall said. “The Jr Raptors also wanted to help the parents with some school supplies and have a fun day for kids in the community and their family.”
Community Day also includes a parade at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, beginning at Oakwood Park in Matteson and traveling through the adjacent neighborhood.
Marshall said involvement in organized activities helps in other aspects of kids’ lives.
“I have seen some of our kids have come to the program where the grades haven’t been so good,” she said. “They have gotten into our program and their behavior has gotten better and parents have told me their grades have improved.”
During the Southland Community Day, there are plans to have flag football and cheer demonstrations.
Terrill Marshall, Brenda’s husband and the vice president of Jr Raptors, said the group’s inclusivity is one of its strongest assets.
“My wife is one of the few female presidents that runs a football program” he said. “(The) Jr Raptors don’t turn any kids away.”