The James Jones Gymnastics Academy in Clayton County, a program dedicated to training all Black boys in competitive gymnastics, is closing in on its financial goal to secure a new facility. The academy, which opened its doors in 2019 and stands as the only one of its kind in the nation, has been facing the threat of closure due to outgrowing its current space. Coach James Jones launched a fundraiser that has now reached over $54,000 of its $60,000 target, a feat bolstered by contributions from high-profile individuals and the community.
According to FOX 5 Atlanta, Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles has leaped into action to support the cause, alongside public thanks conveyed by Jones through a Facebook post. The academy's financial plight has also caught the attention of Viola Davis, Essence Magazine, and Because of Them We Can, each lending their influential voices on social media platforms. Despite being just shy of its goal, the support constitutes a significant contribution to preserving the facility's mission to foster talent and provide opportunities in gymnastics for Black youth.
An outpouring of community assistance comes on the heels of the academy's struggle with finding a suitable new location. The academy's requirements for high ceilings have clashed with zoning regulations in Clayton County, leading to multiple application rejections due to gymnastic activities being disallowed in industrial areas. Now, a promising facility located in south Fulton County has been identified, but comes with a higher rent, prompting this critical fundraising effort.
"Our goal is to get more black boys into competitive gymnastics, and many of the boys travel to compete even if their families can’t afford the uniforms, competition fees, or hotel stay," James Jones told 11Alive. The tuition at the academy is income-based and at times waived entirely, leading to an increased need for the financial support that the fundraiser is working to secure. With almost $53,000 raised by August 22, the community-driven response is an embodiment of collective effort to maintain a valuable space that's nurturing the athletic potential of young Black gymnasts.
