“A future Champion at the Downtown Boxing Gym in Detroit! #fightfordetroit #fightforfreedom” IMAGES COURTESY MADONNA’S INSTAGRAM[/caption]
DETROIT — Pop music icon Madonna paid Downtown Boxing Gym a visit June 4, and spent time with DBG’s student athletes.
“It was a complete surprise, and a welcome one,” said Jessica Hauser, executive director. “We’ve never had such a high profile visitor and it is an honor to have her show interest in the work we do every day.”
Madonna posted two photos of some of the students to her Instagram account with the hashtags #fightfordetroit, #fightforfreedom and #revolutionlove.
She took a tour of some key nonprofit organizations in Detroit including Downtown Boxing Gym, Detroit Achievement Academy, the Heidleberg Project, Ponyride, and the Dime Music School.
The following day, she released a statement on her website.
“Many people doubt that Detroit can come back and think that the challenges are too overwhelming to overcome. But what I witnessed today is the true story of Detroit — a city of innovation, commitment, perseverance, imagination and opportunity. The entrepreneurs, artists, activists, teachers and children I met today left me incredibly inspired. I appreciated every minute of it and look forward to helping make the future of Detroit brighter.”
Matthew Roling, DBG’s board chairman, said, “We’ve got champions in the classroom and in the ring. Madonna’s recognition of Downtown Boxing Gym could be the exposure we need to jump start our campaign for a new building.”
[caption id="attachment_12493" align="alignleft" width="338"] “Fight For Freedom! Fight For Detroit! @ Downtown Boxing Gym! #revolutionoflove”IMAGES COURTESY MADONNA’S INSTAGRAM[/caption] The organization has outgrown its current space on St. Aubin and is actively searching for a new location on the east side. It is launching a major fundraising campaign to purchase and renovate a new building. Detroit’s Downtown Boxing Gym works with Detroiters, ages 7 – 18, to develop the next generation of champions and leaders by boosting their self-confidence through sharpened mental and physical fitness. DBG has a three-point development program that includes boxing, tutoring and community service. Its mission: Develop good citizenship in urban youth through a demanding boxing program in addition to strong academic support and a connection to the community through voluntary service. Visit the DBG at www.downtownyouthboxing.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/downtownboxing. twitter.com/dtownboxingprog.