Two Sanford natives are making big moves and an impact that will last a lifetime on their community.
After playing college ball at Savannah State, Britt Henderson and Kerry S. Wiggins Sr. came home with a mission and desire to give back. The men partnered up with Clifford Martin of Sanford, and the non-profit Unity Youth Association (UYA) was created.
The ambitious partners used their love for sports to be the launch of something big. “I got a couple injuries where I walked away from the game, so my whole thing with UYA is just giving hope and opportunity to those kids in underprivileged communities,” Henderson said. “Just letting them know, I came from the same neighborhood they’re growing up in and I pushed through it. I had obstacles, dealt with trouble in my younger years and was blessed to be given a second chance. That was my passion and drive for it, not knowing it would lead to where we are today.”
UYA hosts a variety of different events for children to participate in. They’ve held socials, parent/child dances and this past summer, UYA provided a learning camp for 80 to 100 children. Sanford Commissioner Wiggins is an active part in events because he knows what he represents. “Sports are our love so that’s why we’re able to do the cheer and football camps. We just had our flag football game in May, I was the oldest person out there playing,” he laughed. “Our thing was just getting out there, having fun, and allowing young men and women to experience it. We very much believe in a family atmosphere.” His wife, Angela Wiggins has been working with UYA since 2008.
