The New Orleans Saints teamed up with two of its corporate partners, Chevron and Offshore Liftboats, for the 2015 Regional Refresh at the Cut Off Youth Center.
The two-month renovation of three rooms and addition of elements to the gym area began in April and was revealed on Thursday, May 28. Members of the Cut Off community youth were present for the press conference and ribbon-cutting.
"We are excited to partner with Chevron and Offshore Liftboats with the announcement of the refurbishment of the Cut Off Youth Center," Saints Owner Tom Benson said. "Our organization is aware how critical health and fitness is to our youth's future and it is essential that they have the state of the art equipment."
With the help of Lowe's through a donation of materials and volunteers for the project, three rooms of the Cut Off Youth Center have been renovated, as well as aspects of the gym court area. Each room's walls were reconstructed, and feature the Saints' team colors, as well as team-inspired furnishings. Comfort Research also donated Fuf chairs for the children to relax in.
"The Cut Off Youth Center has always served as a place for the youth of the Lower Lafourche Communities to enjoy extracurricular activities," said Offshore Liftboats Chief Financial Officer Lauren Melancon Cheramie. "Offshore Liftboats and the Melancon Family are proud to sponsor these renovations and ensure that generations of youth in our community will continue to enjoy the facilities at the Cut Off Youth Center."
The youth fitness zone includes youth-sized hydraulic equipment, an elliptical machine, a water rower, stationary bike, treadmill, weight bench and more. The creative arts room consists of study areas, lounging areas and a computer station. The boxing zone has been revamped with a brand new boxing ring and accessories, including punching bags and gloves. The gym floor area has a new LED scoreboard.
The children were split up into four rotation groups and were introduced to the new features by Saints staff members. They also took part in a Saints Junior Training Camp outside of the facility.
"The Cut Off Youth Center is an example of Chevron's longstanding relationship with the Cut Off community and Lafourche Parish," said Sakari Morrison, Chevron Gulf of Mexico Policy, Government and Public Affairs General Manager. "Chevron is proud to collaborate with our community partners on initiatives like these that provide health and wellness programming for local youth."
