This summer, we had the opportunity to collaborate with PowerPlay, a NYC-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing the lives of girls through sports. PowerPlay’s mission to empower young women by fostering physical, emotional, and mental growth aligns wonderfully with the Museum’s goals to empower visitors of all ages as leaders and changemakers, inspired by Jackie Robinson’s example of using sports as a platform for advancing social change and racial justice. We were thrilled to host PowerPlay students and staff at the Museum on two separate occasions.

On July 17, we welcomed participants from PowerPlay’s SuperSTARS Leadership Academy (SSLA), led by program manager Geralynn Lane. These high school students, ranging from 9th to 12th grade, took part in our Jackie’s Legacy, Your Leadership program, where they explored the core character traits and values Jackie Robinson embodied—such as resilience—both on and off the baseball field. Through a guided tour, collaborative group work, and hands-on activities, the students learned how Robinson’s journey transcended sports, leaving a lasting impact on the fight for equality and civil rights. At the conclusion of the program, these emerging leaders reflected on how they could continue Robinson’s legacy by speaking out and making a difference in their schools and communities today.

Teaming up with Gotham FC’s Abby Smith

The following week, we welcomed PowerPlay’s STARS Series cohort of elementary and middle school students led by program manager Brandi Daniels. The day was made extra special with the participation of Abby Smith, NJ/NY Gotham FC’s goalie and one of the National Women’s Soccer League’s (NWSL) top athletes. Abby’s visit added excitement and energy to the day as she accompanied the girls on a short-guided tour of the museum and supported them in a fun scavenger hunt. The girls had fun independently exploring the galleries for clues and learning more about Jackie Robinson’s life.

View a video recap of Abby’s visit with PowerPlay.

 

After the scavenger hunt, the Summer STARS had the chance to express their creativity by designing murals about how Jackie Robinson inspires them. Abby was right there beside them, encouraging and guiding them in their artistic expressions. Through this activity, the girls reflected on themes of resilience and overcoming obstacles, with many showcasing various ways Jackie Robinson did that as an athlete, activist, businessman, and engaged citizen. Abby is Gotham FC’s nominee for the NWSL’s Lauren Holiday Impact Award, which recognizes outstanding community service by a player from each of the league’s teams.

Fan voting for the Lauren Holiday Impact Award is open during the month of October! Place your vote to support Abby as the Fan Vote Winner!

Fall Visit Welcomes Staten Island Families

This weekend, we continued our partnership by welcoming 40 participants and their parents from the PowerPlay’s Staten Island sites to the Museum. Families took part in our interactive scavenger hunt that highlighted Jackie Robinson’s legacy as both an athlete and an activist. They also enjoyed a themed photo booth featuring Jackie Robinson and fun baseball props. To top off the experience, everyone shared lunch together.

These visits certainly highlighted the power of sports, education, and mentorship in empowering the next generation of leaders. It was inspiring to see everyone engage with Jackie Robinson’s story while being mentored by one of today’s top athletes like Abby Smith. We are grateful for PowerPlay’s partnership and look forward to future collaborations that continue to inspire, educate, and uplift young women.