Recreation & Neighborhood Programs
Where Community Comes to Life
Strong neighborhoods are built through shared spaces and joyful experiences. Neighborhood Leadership Institute creates programs that activate our parks, schools, and public places — making room for movement, creativity, and connection across all ages.

Free Tennis for Kids Ages 8–17
Summer Tennis Program
Every summer, kids across Cleveland take to the courts with NLI. Our drop-in Summer Tennis program gives youth the chance to build skills, stay active, and have fun — all for free.
Program Details:
- Open to boys & girls, ages 8–17
- Led by skilled tennis instructors
- Weather-dependent sessions
- June 9 – July 31
Locations include:
Archmere, Gunning Park, Humphrey Park, Jefferson Park, Luke Easter Park, and more
Recreation + Enrichment for the Whole Family
Schools as Neighborhood Resources (SNR)
SNR opens school buildings after hours to offer gym access, classes, and family-focused programming in welcoming neighborhood settings.
Why it matters:
- SNR is the longest-running school-community initiative in Cuyahoga County
- Strengthens school-family-community bonds
- Provides safe, inclusive spaces to connect and grow


Reading for Reflection and Social Change
Community Book Club
Launched in 2020, NLI’s Community Book Club has welcomed over 600 participants into meaningful conversations about race, equity, and justice — one book at a time.
Topics Include:
- Understanding child behavior and communication
- Media and technology boundaries
- Emotional regulation and creating structure
Current Book: Plundered by Bernadette Atuahene
Aug 5 – Sept 9 | Tuesdays at 7 PM on Zoom
Limited free copies available
Free, but registration required