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RI Outdoors/Sports
Conley Field was a practice site for the original Boston Patriots when they first organized in the early 1960’s, competing in the then American Football League. Robert Kraft, on behalf of the Kraft family and New England Patriots Charitable Foundation, said he was fulfilling his commitment to the City for development of youth sports, through the donation of $100,000 and ten playoff tickets that could be used to raise an additional $100,000 for improvements. His contribution will augment that of the Champlin Foundation, the City of Providence Parks Department and individual contributions by Council President John Lombardi and Council members Kevin Jackson and Patrick Butler. Mr. Kraft first committed to giving $100,000 in December 2003, at the New England Patriots Rhode Island Day of Service. His organization has continued to display support of local youth football, most recently sending linebacker Roman Phifer to a reception for city high school students who took part in the Division IV Superbowl Championships. “We are incredibly moved by the commitment Robert Kraft, his family and the New England Patriots’ organization have made to helping the youth of our city,” said Mayor David N. Cicilline. “Mr. Kraft and the Patriots recognize what experts have been telling us all along – sports builds teamwork, athletic skill, self-esteem and opportunity, and some studies say it keeps kids safer and in school longer. Just think what a difference it can make to the overall quality of life here and to the lives of our young.” Barbara Fields, executive director of LISC, who spoke at the news event, initiated the effort to make improvements at a sports field in Providence, submitting a proposal with the Injury Free Coalition for Kids of Providence at Rhode Island Hospital. That project was not awarded to that group but the Mayor continued his discussions personally on behalf of the city with Mr. Kraft, whose shared the Mayor’s concern about helping urban youth. The renovation project is expected to begin during the summer of 2005. It will include the repair of the concrete structure, installing field lighting and a sound system, replacing the existing track and installing a field turf for three-season use. “Robert Kraft, his family and the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation understand that for kids to have a fair shot in sports – and especially in life – they need a level playing field. This donation helps to level that field,” the Mayor concluded
