The Durham Sports Commission’s Social Impact
The DSC seeks to maximize the potential of Durham’s sports facilities and venues, as well as provide leadership and guidance to the public and private sectors on developing athletic facilities and programs to positively benefit the quality of life of the citizens of Durham. While we always work to create a positive economic impact in Durham, we are equally focused on creating a positive social impact in our community.
The Durham Sports Commission’s mission includes creating social impact through:
Community Organizations
Partnering with community organizations who are aligned with our mission
Youth Sports and Participation
Providing opportunities for sports participation to local youth through the One Team, One Durham Fund
Career Development and Opportunities
Giving individuals opportunities to gain experience and get involved in our sports community with our internship and volunteer programs
Events
Leading the community’s efforts to attract, support and promote youth, amateur, collegiate and professional sporting and recreational events focused on a positive impact on our community
Emerging Women in Sports Leadership Summit
The DSC, in partnership with Women Leaders in Sports and WISE: Greater Raleigh, hosted the second annual Emerging Women in Sports Leadership Summit at the Durham Convention Center. The Emerging Women in Sports Leadership Summit was a high-impact event that brought together diverse women who are passionate about sports and business. Building on the success of the inaugural 2023 event, this year’s summit expanded its scope and provided a unique program tailored to individuals who have approximately seven years of professional experience or less. The event aimed to inspire, empower and equip the next generation of women leaders to make a positive impact in the sports industry, while also providing an opportunity to develop powerful connections that extend beyond the event.
Triangle Race for the Cure
The DSC is proud to have sponsored the Susan G. Komen Foundation Triangle Race for the Cure in Research Triangle Park since 2018. The Triangle Race for the Cure and the Susen G. Komen Foundation are dedicated to raising money for breakthrough breast cancer research and meeting the most critical needs for individuals afflicted with breast cancer. In 2024, 2,500 individuals participated in the race.
Trey Ennis Lacrosse for Leukemia Memorial Tournament
The DSC provided grant support to the 6th Annual Trey Ennis Lacrosse for Leukemia Memorial Tournament in 2023 hosted by Warbirds Lacrosse Association at Jordan High School in Durham. The tournament is held each year in memory of Trey Ennis, a former Jordan Lacrosse player who lost his life after a year-long battle with leukemia in 2017. Proceeds from the event are donated to the family support centers at Duke and UNC’s children’s hospitals.
Battle of the Blades Softball Tournament & Community Event
The DSC provided grant support to the inaugural Battle of the Blades Softball Tournament & Community Event hosted by the North Carolina Air-Medical Association at Historic Durham Athletic Park. The mission of the North Carolina Air-Medical Association is to support the advancement of critical care transport through quality, safety and collaboration. Air medical crews from programs across the state played to promote camaraderie and community engagement with the air medical industry. All proceeds from the event were donated to the North Carolina Air-Medical Association scholarship fund.