Norfolk leaders mentoring youth with new program called #TURNT

Posted: May 19, 2019 / 05:10 PM EDT

Updated: May 20, 2019 / 11:17 AM EDT

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — City leaders started a free program in April called Transforming, Unifying, Recognizing Norfolk Teens, or #TURNT.

Organizers changed the name from Coaches Corner to #TURNT to make a better connection with young people and promote personal growth.

The program teaches youth ages 10 to 16 skills in leadership, life, team building and physical fitness in a fun environment.

#TURNT kicked off at Norfolk Boxing Center on April 6 with more than 65 youth in attendance. Organizers have more sessions planned each month through September.

Maury High School basketball coach Brandon Plummer works as a program mentor and explained why he takes part, “I feel like if these kids have someone that they can relate to that comes from the same neighborhoods and went to the same school that they went through and made it out, that it can inspire a few of them”.

Norfolk councilman Paul Riddick spoke at one of the #TURNT sessions.

“The city council started this conversation because every summer somebody in Berkley, somebody in Huntersville, somebody in Park Place are shooting each other and killing each other,” Riddick said. “It’s ridiculous. It’s ridiculous. We have enough things against us!”.

Riddick said, “I would suggest that you dream. You may sit back and say my gracious what do I want to do one day and work toward that dream. Don’t let anything get you from getting that success as far as that dream is concerned.”

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) provided bus passes to participants for future sessions.

#TURNT takes place on the first Saturday of each month through September (a complete schedule is below). All sessions are free, and are held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Lunch is provided by