The Drills and Skills concept was first envisioned in 1991 by James Hampton, the Recreational Specialist for the Rainier Community Centers Late Night Program, under the leadership of Reco Bembry. Working predominantly with middle and high school-aged youth in Seattle's South District, Mr. Hampton observed that many students sought positive activities but did not engage with the existing community programs. Faced with the choice between an after-school enrichment program and hanging out on the corner, students almost always chose the latter, despite knowing it wasn't safe or wise.
James believed that by aligning students' recreational interests with structured, curriculum-based activities, he could help them develop essential life skills. This vision led to the creation of the Drills and Skills model, which bridges recreation and education to foster success among at-risk youth.
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