Core City CrossFit Kids: Helen Taylor’s Mission to Change Lives (EP. 008)

Helen Taylor, CrossFit Level 2 Trainer and fourth degree black belt, is the founder of Core City CrossFit Kids, a nonprofit organization in Detroit, Michigan, dedicated to transforming the lives of underprivileged youth through fitness, mentorship, and community.In this episode, Helen talks with Denise Thomas about the realities of running a nonprofit in an under-resourced community, the challenges of earning trust, and what it takes to keep kids engaged both inside and outside the gym. She also shares how Core City CrossFit Kids has become more than just a fitness program — it’s a space where kids find consistency, support, and leadership opportunities they don’t get anywhere else. Topics Included: Helen’s background in martial arts and transition to CrossFit The origins of Core City CrossFit Kids and the challenges of starting a nonprofit The role of fitness in addressing mental health, depression, and food insecurity Building trust with youth in underprivileged communities Collaborating with local schools, law enforcement, and community leaders Resources Mentioned: Core City CrossFit Kids: https://www.instagram.com/corecitycrossfitkids Core City Documentary: find it at @corecityfilm or here; special thanks to Shadow Creek Films and Corban Aspegren for a great film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVyG_QdW0CY  Contact Helen: For donations, volunteering, or inquiries, email [e-mail] Community Highlight: This week, we’re highlighting Jessie Dudley, a former elementary school teacher who now runs Organización de Amigos, a nonprofit breaking down financial barriers to sports and fitness for kids and teens. Jessie has opened two CrossFit affiliates in schools with another in the works, aiming to expand across Washington County, Oregon. She’s currently looking for CrossFit coaches for paid roles. Learn more at www.organizaciondeamigos.com or follow @organizaciondeamigos. Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here: https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/CrossFit-Community-Stories/tt-PrkSJ Share Your Thoughts:  Let us know what you think about the podcast and how we can improve here: https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/The-CrossFit-Podcast---Feedback-Survey/tt-lf9Gf?ep=008