Image courtesy of Sound Mind Sound Body Foundation
Curtis Blackwell II, founder and president of the Sound Mind Sound Body (SMSB) Foundation, is set to receive the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from Former President Joe Biden, recognizing his unwavering dedication to volunteerism and youth development. As the leader of SMSB, a nationally recognized nonprofit that mentors students in underserved communities, Blackwell has spent over two decades and counting using sports as a bridge to academic success. His organization’s mission, improving student persistence, boosting high school graduation rates, and increasing college enrollment, has made a profound impact, reducing dropout rates and expanding scholarship opportunities for young athletes. In addition to this honor, Blackwell has also been named the 2025 Afterschool Ambassador by the National Afterschool Alliance, further cementing his role as a champion for educational equity and student achievement.
The official award ceremony will take place on March 21, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM at the Thurgood Marshall Center Trust, Inc., located at 1812 12th Street, Washington, DC 20003. Dr. Thomasina Yearwood, President of the Thurgood Marshall Trust, Inc., and Rawle Andrews, Esq., 135th President of the Washington, DC Bar Association and Executive Director of the American Psychiatric Association Foundation, will host the event.
Blackwell has been honored as one of the 2025 Afterschool Ambassadors by the National Afterschool Alliance, a recognition that is given to only 10-12 individuals across the country. This award highlights Blackwell’s strong leadership and dedication to improving after-school programs. Blackwell took part in a training in Washington, D.C., on February 6. During the training, he worked with other leaders to discuss and promote ideas and policies that enhance after-school education and activities for kids.
The President’s Volunteer Service Award is a prestigious recognition established by an executive order in 2003 to honor the exceptional commitment of Americans who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to significant community service initiatives. Among the various levels of acknowledgment within this program, the Lifetime Achievement Award represents the highest distinction bestowed.
It specifically acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to volunteerism throughout their lives, highlighting their significant contributions to society and their passion for making a positive difference in their communities. This award is a testament to the inspiring spirit of service that characterizes those who dedicate themselves to helping others over an extended period.
“I am deeply honored to receive the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award and to serve as a 2025 Afterschool Ambassador,” Blackwell said.
“Giving back to the community has always been a personal mission, and I am committed to ensuring that every child has access to quality afterschool programs that inspire learning and growth.”
As Black History Month comes to an end, the Sound Mind Sound Body Foundation will receive the Afterschool Excellence Award for Community Engagement. This award recognizes outstanding individuals and innovative programs that have significantly impacted their local communities.
The ceremony for the Afterschool Excellence Awards will be held during the MAC Annual Conference on February 28th at 9:00 AM in Novi. This event will celebrate achievements in afterschool programming and serve as a platform to inspire greater community involvement and engagement through creative and effective initiatives.
For more information on the Sound Mind Sound Body Foundation visit, www.smsbacademy.com.
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