NEWPORT NEWS — For the 20th time since launching the program in 2002, the Christopher Newport Department of Athletics has made a positive impact on the community with its annual tradition, Operation Kids First, on the first day of Newport News Public Schools. This Monday morning, over 400 student-athletes, coaches, and staff came together for the annual initiative encouraging a safe return to school for local elementary aged children.
The large group of CNU representatives welcomed back the students at many elementary schools around the city while also posting up on sidewalks and corners on two of the cities main thoroughfares with signs encouraging driver safety. The 20th Annual Kids First community service project continued to be a terrific success, encouraging drivers to slow down and drive safe.
The initiative begane in 2002 with a modest group of student-athletes and staff and has grown to include nearly every team on campus and hundreds of volunteers. Adorned with “Kids First, Drive Safely” signs, student-athletes and coaches waved at drivers at local intersections to encourage safety. Afterwards, teams headed to the front steps of elementary schools, excitedly welcoming back students for the new year.
Christopher Newport’s Athletic Outreach Program Director Roland Ross organized the outing, adding another successful chapter in the community service project.
The Captains have community service partnerships with several NNPS elementary schools. If you are interested in the Captains volunteering for your organization, please contact Coach Ross at 757-594-7041.
