Over 100 Youth Participate in Summer of Nonviolence Youth Baseball Camp

ALBUQUERQUE – More than 100 young people from across Albuquerque participated today in the inaugural Summer of Nonviolence Youth Baseball Camp, a free event designed to encourage teamwork, leadership, and positive engagement through sports.

The camp took place at the Los Altos Park softball fields and was presented by the City of Albuquerque's Albuquerque Community Safety Department, Albuquerque Parks and Recreation, Albuquerque Fire Rescue, Albuquerque’s Metro Security Division, Bernalillo County, Bernalillo County Commission Vice Chair Adriann Barboa, District 7 City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn and coaches from Rio Rancho Cages.

Open to students entering third through 10^th grade, the one-day camp combined baseball instruction with interactive team activities and opportunities for participants to meet coaches, student-athletes, and community leaders who serve as positive role models.

Throughout the day, coaches from Rio Rancho Cages led skill-building drills and games while emphasizing communication, sportsmanship, perseverance, and respect both on and off the field.

Camp participants also received lunch provided by NM Soul Shack, a commemorative Seasons of Nonviolence jersey and baseball to take home.

The Summer of Nonviolence initiative offers free activities and events throughout the season, encouraging young people to commit to nonviolence while creating safe, welcoming spaces where they can stay active, build friendships, and connect with their community.

"Programs like this create opportunities that extend well beyond baseball," said Mayor Tim Keller. "Young people are surrounded by mentors who encourage them to work together, believe in themselves, and recognize that every positive choice strengthens our community."

"Today's camp is about giving kids a place where they feel supported, challenged, and inspired," said Bernalillo County Commission Vice Chair Adriann Barboa (D3). "When we invest in experiences that bring youth together, we're helping build stronger relationships and a brighter future for everyone."

"Providing young people with safe places to learn new skills and connect with positive role models is an important part of violence prevention," said ACS Outreach Manager Jeffery Bustamante. "Partnerships like this help create meaningful experiences where youth can develop confidence, strengthen friendships, and discover the value of leadership and teamwork."

"Seeing these young athletes learn, encourage one another, and enjoy the game is what makes events like this worthwhile," said Damien Griego co-owner of Rio Rancho Cages. "We hope every participant leaves excited to keep playing, keep learning, and continue supporting their teammates both on and off the field."

City leaders thanked the families, coaches, volunteers, and student-athletes whose participation helped make the inaugural event a success. Through partnerships like these, the Summer of Nonviolence continues to provide positive opportunities that keep Albuquerque's youth engaged, active, and connected throughout the summer.

The Seasons of Nonviolence campaign features free events across Albuquerque all year long, offering safe and enriching activities for young people and their families. For more information about upcoming events, visit the Seasons of Nonviolence website.

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About Albuquerque Community Safety

Albuquerque Community Safety is the City of Albuquerque’s third branch of public safety. Responders take calls for service involving behavioral health, substance use, and other non-criminal and non-medical issues. Request an ACS Responder by calling 911 for emergencies and 311 for non-emergencies.