UFC opens first Youth Wellness Center during UFC 328 fight week

The UFC launched its first Youth Wellness Center in Newark during fight week for UFC 328, partnering with four local organizations to bring mental health services and athletic programming to area youth.

Khalil Rountree and Aljamain Sterling joined Boys & Girls Club of Newark CEO Ameer Washington on May 6 to unveil the facility, which offers one-on-one psychotherapy, group counseling, family support, and nutrition education, according to a UFC release. The center was developed alongside Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, the New Jersey Devils, and Prudential Center.

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Rountree and Sterling lead youth fitness programs in Newark

"Opening the first-ever UFC Youth Wellness Center in May, which also serves as Mental Health Awareness Month, is one of the best things I've ever been a part of," Rountree said, per UFC.com. "Staying mentally fit is important for youth of all ages, and this center is going to be a key aspect of helping them daily." Devils players Johnny Kovacevic, Jake Allen, and Colin White attended the ceremony, after which each student received UFC-branded notebooks, pens, and hats.

A day later, Sterling and welterweight Ramiz Brahimaj ran a youth fitness seminar for more than 50 members of IronBound Boxing Academy and Beat the Streets Wrestling Newark at St. Benedict's Prep. The athletes taught boxing fundamentals and wrestling techniques including single and double leg takedowns. Both programs operate at several Newark schools, offering free training as part of an afterschool initiative with the Newark Police Department.

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During UFC 328 at Prudential Center on May 9, a 50/50 raffle with the Devils Youth Foundation raised $29,850, with net proceeds benefitting youth charities across New Jersey.

Source: ufc.com