Cops & Kids Boxing

- 667 E 34th St, Brooklyn, NY 11203

In a city as vast as New York, finding a safe and productive space for young people can be one of the most important factors in their development. Cops & Kids Boxing in Brooklyn is not a typical sports complex; it's a vital community-driven initiative that uses boxing as a vehicle for mentorship, discipline, and personal growth. As a non-profit organization, its mission goes far beyond teaching jabs and hooks. It’s about building a bridge between law enforcement and the youth, providing a positive alternative to street life and a supportive environment where young people, some of whom are troubled, can find their path. The dedication of the men and women who volunteer their time is at the heart of this program, a fact that is universally celebrated by the community.

The core of Cops & Kids Boxing is its commitment to being a free resource for the community. A common question from potential members, as highlighted in a review, is about the cost and eligibility. The program is completely free for youth aged 12 to 21, and you do not need to be a police officer to join. It is designed specifically for young people, and as one parent said, it is "THE place if you want to do better." This focus on giving back to the community is what truly sets Cops & Kids apart from any other sports complex or gym in the city. The program, founded in 2011 by retired NYPD Sergeant Pat Russo, has a proven track record of providing structure and purpose to thousands of NYC youth. Its success is measured not just in the Olympic boxers and world champions it has produced, but in the countless young people it has guided toward becoming police officers, firefighters, and teachers.

The program's impact is rooted in its holistic approach. While boxing training is a central component, the gym also offers mentorship and a structured environment where positive values are instilled. This emphasis on mutual respect and self-discipline is woven into the very fabric of the gym's culture, from the handshake tradition to the simple rules that teach self-respect. It's a place that provides a physical outlet for stress and aggression while simultaneously fostering academic excellence and personal accountability.

Cops & Kids Boxing is located at 667 E 34th St, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA. This address places it in the Flatbush Gardens area of Brooklyn, making it easily accessible for youth in the surrounding neighborhoods. The location is more than just a physical address; it's a hub for community engagement and positive change. The program’s presence in a central part of the community ensures that it is a convenient and viable after-school option for many young people. The facility includes a restroom for convenience, and the environment is recognized as being "good for kids."

• Free Boxing and Fitness Training: The program provides a safe and well-equipped environment for youth to train in boxing and physical fitness. This includes structured training programs that instill discipline and a strong work ethic.
• Mentorship from Volunteer Officers and Coaches: The program is run by active and retired law enforcement officers and experienced coaches who serve as positive role models. They are dedicated to guiding young people on a better path.
• Community Building: The program is designed to build a bridge between law enforcement and the community, fostering mutual respect and understanding.
• Tutoring and Academic Support: Beyond the ring, the program provides tutoring and educational resources to help participants with their schoolwork, ensuring they excel both in and out of the gym.
• Life Skills Development: Through structured training and mentorship, participants learn valuable life skills such as self-discipline, respect for others, and self-confidence.
• Competition Opportunities: For dedicated athletes, the program provides opportunities to train and compete in amateur boxing, with a history of producing national champions and Olympians.

• 100% Free Program: A key highlight is that the program is completely free for all participants aged 12 to 21, removing the financial barrier to participation for underserved youth.
• Dedicated Volunteers: The program is sustained by the incredible time and effort of volunteer coaches and mentors, a testament to its community-first mission.
• Focus on Mentorship: The program is not just a boxing gym; it's a mentorship initiative. The connection between the youth and the law enforcement officers who volunteer their time is a cornerstone of the program's success.
• Safe and Supportive Environment: Cops & Kids Boxing provides a safe space for young people to be kids, to learn, and to grow away from negative influences.
• Restroom and Basic Amenities: The facility is equipped with a restroom, ensuring a comfortable environment for all participants.
• Proven Track Record: With a history of producing successful athletes and community leaders, the program has a proven track record of creating positive, lasting change in the lives of young people.

Address: 667 E 34th St, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA

Phone: There is no publicly available phone number for this location.

For parents and youth in the New York region, Cops & Kids Boxing is a truly unique and invaluable resource. While a typical gym might offer a workout, this program offers a life-changing opportunity. The fact that it is completely free for young people removes a significant financial barrier, making it accessible to those who need it most. The glowing reviews from community members highlight the dedication of the volunteers and the profound impact the program has on the lives of its participants. It’s a place where kids can learn to box, but more importantly, where they can learn about respect, discipline, and self-worth.

The bridge-building aspect of the program, connecting youth with law enforcement in a positive and constructive way, is a powerful model for community policing. The gym’s atmosphere is one of mutual respect and high expectations, which encourages young people to take responsibility for their own success. For a local user, choosing Cops & Kids Boxing means investing in a place that is committed to the well-being and future of the community’s youth. It is more than a sports complex; it is a beacon of hope and a platform for creating champions, both in and out of the ring.

Cops & Kids Boxing

667 E 34th St, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA