Women's basketball volunteers at Sanctuary on 8th Street

The Florida State College at Jacksonville women's basketball program has wasted no time getting involved in the community.

The team took time off after the first week of workouts to volunteer at Jacksonville's Sanctuary on 8th Street. FSCJ's student-athletes were able to interact with the children involved in the after school program. They spent 30 minutes with two different age groups providing instruction and fun on the basketball court. Smiles were had by all as the children shot baskets, dribbled and played with members of the FSCJ women's basketball team.

"Today was a great opportunity for our new group of young ladies to learn what FSCJ women's basketball program is about." said second year head coach Diana Couch. "They aren't just here to play ball, but to get an education and to serve the community. It was nice to see them embrace our mission and share their talents with the youth of Sanctuary on 8th Street."

The Sanctuary on 8th Street has a mission to encourage and empower Jacksonville youth and families in need by ministering to their spiritual, physical, social, and intellectual needs. In response to the changing needs of the neighborhood, the Presbytery of St. Augustine and the former Springfield Presbyterian Church opened the doors of Urban Ministries of Springfield in 1992. In 2001, the name was changed to the Sanctuary on 8th Street after relocating to the historic post office building. The program has grown from a dozen to over 100 children in our after school and summer camp programs.