Register Now: ‘Coaching for Safer Communities’ Training

Posted on by Christo Bubenik
coach with young athletes

Youth coaches, mentors, and community leaders play a vital role in shaping Asheville’s future leaders. To help them better support the young people they work with, Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) is excited to announce Coaching for Safer Communities, a specialized training program designed to equip coaches with essential tools and insights. The training is presented in partnership with Buncombe County, Buncombe County Children’s Collaborative, and Vaya Health.

On youth sports fields today, coaches possess a powerful opportunity to build life-saving support that future college athletes will need tomorrow. Over the past 20 years, suicide has doubled to become the second-leading cause of death for collegiate student-athletes, with male athletes accounting for roughly 77% of these tragedies, and intense performance pressures or severe injuries frequently triggering severe mental health crises.

By serving as lifelong mentors who praise the person over the performance, youth coaches build a resilient foundation of self-worth that protects athletes long after they leave youth leagues. Whether leading a sports team, running an after-school program, or volunteering as a mentor, this two-hour session will provide actionable strategies to create a safer, more supportive environment for local youth.

What You Will Learn

high school wrestler with arm around young wrestler pose on mats at Grant Southside CenterThis comprehensive training tackles several timely and critical topics, including:

  • Effective Mentorship Strategies: Building strong, positive relationships
  • Navigating Different Communication Styles: Connecting with youth on their level
  • Suicide Awareness and Prevention: Recognizing signs and offering support
  • Trauma Awareness and Response: Creating supportive spaces for vulnerable youth
  • Mindfulness Practices: Promoting mental well-being for both mentors and mentees

Event Details

  • Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
  • Time: 10am to 12pm
  • Location: Stephens-Lee Community Center on 30 George Washington Carver Avenue in Asheville

Register Today

Space is limited, so secure your spot as soon as possible.

REGISTER NOW

Please spread the word! Share this opportunity with networks, staff, volunteers, and anyone else who might benefit from this training. Working together, we can all help make Asheville a safer, more supportive place for our young people to thrive, lead, and reach their full potential.

flag football players and coachesExplore More with Asheville Parks & Recreation

Asheville Parks & Recreation hosts hundreds of programs, activities, and special events in parks and community centers every month! Programs fill up fast and many require advance registration, so it’s worth spending some time planning which activities and events to attend. Use these resources to discover additional opportunities: