The mission of the HYPE program is to Help Young People Excel in all aspects of (L.I.F.E.) by providing opportunities for Leadership, Inspiration, Fitness and Educational excellence. To fulfill its mission, HYPE provides mentors to at-risk and in-need middle and high school students in Sumner County who need hope, guidance, academic accountability, and stable adult role-models. We financially support mentees’ involvement in any extra-curricular activities, arts programs, or youth sports that broaden horizons, promote health and wellness, and cultivate a sense of belonging, accomplishment, and self-esteem. We provide scholarships to referred youth to join city recreational sports leagues, travel leagues, and school leagues, recognizing that registration fees, uniform fees, travel fees, and equipment are cost-prohibitive for the very students who could most benefit from involvement. HYPE Mentoring helps close the participation gap of young women in sports, by creating and sponsoring the HYPE Fast Pitch girls’ softball team. HYPE provides financial assistance for talented young women who otherwise could not afford to join the team. HYPE Mentoring also serves as a repository for gently used sports equipment, and redistributes the equipment to deserving students in the county. All recipients of HYPE scholarships and donations are required to fulfill academic and community service requirements.