Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, joined by County officials, interns, youth leaders, and officials from the One for All Foundation, officially kicked off the 2025 Summer Games and Internship Programs on Wednesday morning with a high-energy event at the Julia C. Hester House in Houston’s Fifth Ward.
Formerly known as the Harris County Street Olympics, the One for All Foundation is now in its 39th year of empowering underserved youth with a broad slate of educational, recreational, and civic engagement opportunities. This year’s programs are expected to serve more than 1,600 children and teens across 66 youth-serving agencies in Harris County.
The kickoff featured demonstrations from students participating in the nonprofit’s signature summer offerings, including the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools, Discovery Camp, Learn-to-Swim, and the Harris County Leadership Internship Program. These programs provide essential academic support, career development, and wellness activities aimed at building a more equitable and vibrant community.
“For nearly four decades, the One for All Foundation has made sure that every child—no matter their ZIP Code—has the opportunity to dream, grow, and thrive,” said Commissioner Ellis. “We are here because we believe in our youth and in the power of community investment.”
Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools, designed to combat summer reading loss and provide year-round academic support.
The Harris County Leadership Internship Program is also growing, with 46 paid internships offered to help students explore careers in public service. Meanwhile, Discovery Camp will serve 400 youth with hands-on environmental and science education to connect children to nature and their communities.
The summer schedule includes the 3-on-3 Basketball Championship Tournament on July 15–16 and culminates with the Final Event and Bright Futures Fair on August 1 at NRG Arena. The event will feature the "Parade of Champions," recognizing young participants and their achievements.
“One for All is more than a summer program—it’s a year-round commitment to equity and empowerment,” said Wendy Montoya Cloonan, One for All Board Member. “These are investments that will pay dividends in stronger communities and brighter futures.”
Programs are made possible through public-private partnerships and the support of dedicated agencies and volunteers.
Too many children in our region miss out on enrichment opportunities due to financial barriers. We refuse to accept that reality.Commissioner Rodney Ellis
About The Office of Commissioner Rodney Ellis
The Office of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis is committed to becoming a national model for delivering responsive public service that utilizes inclusive, innovative, and collaborative approaches to improve the quality of life, advance equality of opportunity, and promote the fair treatment of all people in Harris County.
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