Patriots DT Ron Brace remembers what it was like when school dismissed for summer vacation and how important recreational programs were in keeping him active and healthy. On Feb. 23, Brace teamed with Mayor Thomas Menino and other community leaders to encourage more than 1,000 Boston youth to get involved in the Boston Centers for Youth & Families programs during the Boston R.O.C.K. IT! event at the Strand Theatre.
The Boston R.O.C.K. IT! event featured live performances from local talent, contests, prizes and surprise celebrity guest visits.
"I was always involved in activities like basketball, flag football, just something to get out of the house," Brace said while encouraging youth to sign up for summer activities. "I liked to draw, too. I often went to the studio and painted something. Activities like that also helped me in school and also making it to college and beyond."
Mayor Thomas Menino spoke to the youth in attendance, saying, "I want to make sure everyone in Boston has the opportunity to have a great summer. These guys are really great role models for you. These are the guys that you want to replicate in your life. Go to school, work hard, be positive, make the right decisions and you'll all have a beautiful future for yourselves and your families."
For more information or to sign up for a summer program, visit: www.cityofboston.gov/bcyf.
