In April of 2000, Bruce Levy Associates International, Ltd. (BLAIL) teamed up with heavyweights such as the Women's Sports Foundation, Urban Box Office (UBO) and Columbia Business School, to launch PASSAGES, a three day program that was created to help BLAIL clients adapt to the challenge of transitioning from the playing field to the ãreal worldä. The players were given free scholarships to attend the program, which included airfare, hotel and all meals.
"The PASSAGES program was very inspirational to me. It opened my eyes about financial issues, communication and the way I interact with other people. It helped me think about what I want to do after my playing days are over. They had a great two-day computer course that was extremely beneficial, particularly regarding Excel." Adrienne Goodson - Philadelphia (ABL) , Chicago (ABL), Utah Starzz (WNBA). Veteran of World Championships, World University Games, and Parana Brazil.
Among the seminars and workshops featured were:
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Social Skills - Four seminars which covered the meaning and nature of culture, as well as its importance in shaping behavioral patterns and value systems. |
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Communication Skills - Two seminars led by the renowned Yolanda Jackson of the Womenâs Sports Foundation, in which the players worked on their presentation skills for public speaking opportunities. |
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Computer Skills - Four training sessions which covered the basics of the computer, including word processing, spreadsheet formatting and accessing the internet for information. |
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Goal Setting and Career Planning - Two seminars, led by Yolanda Jackson, which helped the players identify and plan for career opportunities after basketball. |
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Financial Planning - A seminar which helped the players understand the basics of managing their finances and investing for the future. |
Keep watching for upcoming events!