The New York Crusaders prioritizes career development for participants facing unemployment or underemployment. To support long-term stability, the organization offers job-readiness programming focused on sports, construction, maintenance, and related career pathways. These programs prepare individuals for roles in youth sports and recreation services, construction support and trade-adjacent positions, and facility and grounds maintenance. Through targeted training and employer partnerships, the Crusaders equips community members with practical skills and direct access to meaningful employment opportunities.
Our Community Fitness Programming engages residents of all ages through free health and fitness activities, including bootcamps, youth sports days, senior sessions, and fitness dance classes. These programs promote overall physical and mental wellness through accessible “stay in shape” workshops and workouts.
Our flagship Crusaders Summer Boot Camp in Brooklyn offers weekly open-field training sessions with 30–50 participants, featuring fitness drills, guest instructors, and nutrition talks. Through partnerships with community-based organizations across New York City, we expand our reach to low- and moderate-income youth and adults, aiming to serve over 100 participants each year.
The Crusaders’ football program provides a structured platform for athletes ages 18–35 to develop athletic skills, leadership, and teamwork. As the organization’s foundational program, it engages a broad group of young men while promoting community service through events such as school supply drives, park clean-ups, and shelter support.
Football also serves as a pathway to higher education. Through partnerships with NCAA Division I and II programs, the Crusaders connect athletes directly with college coaches and administrators, helping secure scholarships and enrollment opportunities. Notably, three members enrolled at Livingstone College in 2017–18 with approximately $35,000 in athletic scholarship support.
