RFL (Racing 4 Life) is a youth program designed to empower the youth and to give them alternatives to crime and violence.  This program was formed by, Michael Henry, driver and owner of D&M Racing Team, an African American race team from San Francisco Ca. Through him R4L enlightens middle and high school students, especially young men between the ages of 10-17 years old.  The program introduces them to the automotive industry and the basic principals getting into the workforce.  R4L primarily hosts its weekly program at S.R. Martin College Prep school but will also be speaking at different schools and outreach programs throughout San Francisco Bay Area while using its racing experience to make the connection between racing, life and education.  R4L will often bring the team’s racecar to a school site as an example of what hard work and education will provide for them.  R4L also provides the students the basic codes of conduct in order to give them a better chance in life.

    R4L’s founder Michael Henry decided it was time that we as African American leaders give back to the youth and provide them with an alternative to drugs and gangs.  He has been actively involved with other youth outreach programs for several years.  After finding much success and friendship at the racetrack he felt the need for the youth to experience what life is like when being involved with positive things.  “ It’s very important for the youth of today to know that they can become successful in life and that there are opportunities other than professional sports and musicians.  I do believe that the children are our future so we need to prepare them so that we will have a future and that‘s R4L’s goal”. Michael Henry

    R4L’s budget relies on support from sponsors and donations through S.R. Martin.  This funding allows the students to have expense paid fieldtrips to: vocational schools, attend selected team racing events, as well as trips to African American businesses that support RFL’s mission. The funding also will be used for providing the students with materials for school including: pencils, paper, notebooks etc.  RFL’s team items will also be provided to them. There will also be guest appearances by African American business entrepreneurs and leaders.

    Initially we will hold the sessions with S.R. Martin students once a week and possibly one weekend per month for special events.  This program will be held during the school semester of 2009.  The hours will be from 2:30pm to 4:00pm on Monday's with a minimum of three Fridays per month.  In the first few sessions the students will be taught the basic skills needed to become successful along with proper dress for success and courtesy needed to become the best that they can.  As we continue we will work through their roles and responsibility in society while shaping the way they view their lives and school.  They will learn basic automotive skills that will interest them in the industry.

For more details contact us