MIAMI – Through a premier football program for youth, the Hard Knocks Foundation has motivated 4,000 athletes to experience college, better academic performance and character enhancement. High school boys from Homestead, Florida City, Naranja, Goulds, South Miami, Overtown, Liberty City and North Miami have become part of a system that promotes hard work and hope. "We serve these young athletes by providing mentorship and educational programming to establish and maintain hope, direction, and opportunity that otherwise may be a challenge for them to obtain," said coach Derrick Lester, president and CEO of Hard Knocks.

For Black History Month, on Feb. 25 through 29, Hard Knocks will take 50 boys to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta, Ga. The trip will include exploring 35 sites related to the life and work of King. After the tour three teams will compete in the National 7 on 7 football tournament.

To donate: Contact Coach Derrick Lester, lesterder@yahoo.com or call (786) 4432202.