CityWest Homes volunteer 'Kickz' his way to success

A CityWest Homes youth volunteer has won a national award for encouraging young, hard-to-reach teenagers into sport as part of Chelsea FC’s ‘Kickz’ programme.

Edson Robole, from Westminster, is one of just 37 teenagers across the UK to be recognised for his outstanding contribution to the scheme which aims to build safer communities and reduce antisocial behaviour through sport.

CityWest Homes, which manages 22,000 council properties in Westminister, is one of a handful of organsiations across the country to support the Kickz programme which uses the appeal of professional football clubs to engage young people aged 12-18 who may otherwise be difficult to reach.

The Chelsea Kickz programme has been particulalry successful in breaking down barriers and promoting healthy communication between the police and young people. As a result of the programme, Chelsea FC has seen an increase in youngsters taking part in football either through playing, coaching or officiating.

Edson has been a volunteer at Churchill Gardens youth club in Pimlico for three years, helping to mentor other youngsters particularly through encouraging them to take part in sports. Edson started working on the Kickz programme 18 months ago.

Since working on the programme Edson has achieved his Football Association Level One Football Coaching certificate and is planning to take his Level Two coaching course soon.

Commenting on his award, Edson said:

“When I heard that I was going to be nominated, I was surprised because there are loads of volunteers at Chelsea - so to be nominated and then win a national award, well I was honoured.

“I'd like to thank everyone that helped and supported me like Jim Ball, Michael Cole and Paul Barnes and everyone else at Chelsea football club and Churchill Gardens Youth Club."

Jim Ball, manager at the Churchill Gardens youth club said:

“Edson is a fantastic role model and I am thrilled that he has received this recognition. Edson is extremely well liked and respected by other young people from the youth club and this admiration for him has lead to several other youth club members becoming voluntary workers.”

Formed in 2002, CityWest Homes manages 22,000 council homes in Westminster. As one of the country’s leading ALMOs (ALMO Arms Length Management organisations) CityWest Homes involves residents in the management of their estates. For more information visit www.cwh.org.uk