AEI athletic grants a great help

There’s a push in society today for children to be more active, and for good reason. Concerns about inactivity related to too much time in front of electronic devices and alarming childhood obesity rates are valid.

One avenue for activity is participation in athletic events. They promote physical fitness, and teach lessons about teamwork and working to achieve goals.

However, some children are unable to participate in athletics because of the financial costs. That’s unfortunate, and shouldn’t happen.

That’s why it was welcome news that Analytical Engineering Inc. (AEI), a Columbus company, has established a fund that will provide financial support to local youths 18 and younger who want to participate in athletic and fitness programs.

AEI has provided $25,000 for youths, parents, teams, clubs and other organizations to pay for lessons, clinics, program fees and other youth sports-related costs.

The AEI Youth Sports Fund will be administered by Heritage Fund – The Community Foundation of Bartholomew County, and will offer grants ranging from $50 to $2,000 for individuals, and organizations involved with youth sports can apply for up to $5,000 in assistance.

These grants will help in the promotion of active lifestyles and physical fitness, and help eliminate financial obstacles that could be a barrier to participation.

We applaud AEI for providing this important assistance.