Allentown Boxing and Youth Program and Future Boxing Star Receives Grant from TeenWorks Board

Allentown Boxing and Youth Program and Future Boxing Star Receives Grant from TeenWorks Board on June 5
Mayor Ed Pawlowski Will Attend the Presentation in Allentown

Allentown, Pa. - The TeenWorks board, a labor partnership of the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, will give a $1,000 grant to the Allentown Boxing and Youth Program.

Allentown Mayor, Ed Pawlowski will be on hand to show his support of the inner city boxing program on Tuesday, June 5 from noon to 12:30 p.m. at 402 Ridge Ave in Allentown.

Mr. James Kelleher recently gave a presentation to the TeenWorks board, along with mentors from the organization, and was granted funding. Kelleher attends Palisades High School but travels into Center City to train as well as mentor youths who are between the ages of 6 and 18.

Last year, James was ranked second in the country by the Golden Gloves Association of America for his particular weight class and in May was narrowly defeated by an opponent five years older than him; temporarily missing out on his chance for state finals.

James explained the importance of safe equipment when he presented to the board recently. “The weight of gloves can change dramatically by the usage and people can get hurt. Getting into the ring to box is not just about physical activity, but rather building character,” said Kelleher.

Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski applauded the TeenWorks board for again coming to the assistance of inner city youth programs.

“TeenWorks is one of the best kept secrets in the Lehigh Valley and we encourage their support and encourage similar agencies to ask for their help,” Pawlowski said. “James Kelleher is a good example of what kids can do to help their community. The Lehigh Valley has a proud history of boxing champs and philanthropists beginning with Larry Holmes. We will be hearing a lot more about Mr. Kelleher in the future.”

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