Within the youth population in Oklahoma it is known that one-third of our children do not exercise, contributing to a serious obesity problem. Other major contributing factors to the problem include sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits. These problems are exacerbated when applied to special needs populations. Children with disabilities and/or children who are disadvantaged are at even higher risks than the general population due in part to a lack of opportunity to participate in sports and other recreational activities.

Clinical studies show that sports and recreation programs do help youths establish lifelong healthy, physical activity patterns. Regular physical activity wards off life-threatening diseases; reduces feelings of depression and anxiety; helps control weight and obesity; and builds and maintains healthy bones, muscles and joints according to the President's Council on Physical Fitness.

Children with disabilities and disadvantaged children must have opportunities for successful beginnings in both education and sports regardless of age, race, gender, family composition, income or community. In response to the significant disparity, Access Sports Incorporated (ASI) has been created to provide children with these opportunities.

Access Sports will empower Oklahoma children with disabilities and children who are economically and/or socially disadvantaged by providing inspirational opportunities and access to sports. Through affiliation with multiple sports business partners, ASI has created a statewide network to provide children with scholarships enabling them to participate in these programs. Additionally, the Oklahoma City Thunder supports ASI programs. Thus, ASI serves as a resource for healthy physical activities by promoting general fitness and providing outlets for recreation and healthy competition. Additionally, ASI provides programs and experiences to teach and develop all children enabling them to better participate in society.

To provide sports scholarships to Oklahoma children ages four through eighteen enabling them to participate in athletic opportunities and life skills development experiences.

• The Oklahoma City Thunder supports ASI programs

• Breadth of program offerings (basketball, volleyball, tennis, athletic strength and conditioning, and other sports-related activities) through affiliation with Performance Sports.

• Life skills development activities

• Programs are offered at multiple locations in Oklahoma City

As a 501(c) 3 organization, it is critical that Access Sports takes a proactive strategy in promoting its program in the community as well as creating a strong fund-raising program. To accomplish these goals, a three-member board is in place to oversee a variety of fund-raising and community awareness activities. Initially, sponsors are being recruited to provide scholarships in the amount of $2,500 per year. To date, ASI has secured five commitments from individuals and corporations at this level. Additionally, other fund-raising activities such as auctions and golf tournaments are planned.

Access Sports Incorporated is a dynamic and growing organization and is dedicated to providing youth development services in a competent, comprehensive and caring manner. The leadership team consistently and enthusiastically embraces positive change and organizational improvement efforts and this culture translates to all employees. But above all, Access Sports is a learning organization. Not only are youth sports and life skills development emphasized, but the entire organization is focused on internal development as well. As a result, team spirit is fostered both in the internal organization and the youth it serves.