Friday Night Nets

Friday Night Nets is a youth violence prevention and engagement initiative sponsored by the City of Newport News and Newport News Parks & Recreation. Held every Friday from May 16 to August 22, 2025, this summer program creates a safe, welcoming environment for youth and young adults (elementary school through age 25) to connect, play, and thrive.

Each event features:
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Athletic activities like basketball and tennis
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Video games, free food, and barbershop-style haircuts
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Mentorship, games, music, and community-building fun
The results speak for themselves: the city has recorded a measurable decrease in youth violence on the nights Friday Night Nets is held.

ICO’s Role & Impact
As a trusted community partner, Ivy Community Outreach (ICO) has supported this initiative since its launch:
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Providing staff and volunteer support
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Overseeing the Achievable Dream Tennis Center location
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Managing concessions and helping cultivate a fun, safe atmosphere

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