Providing For Our Youth One Kid At A Time
Who We Are
Founded in 2020, the Kelly Pavlik Charitable Organization (KPCO)
operates athletic and academic support programs for
underserved youth in the Mahoning Valley.
Kelly “The Ghost” Pavlik is the former The Ring,
WBC, and WBO middleweight champion of the world.
Born on April 5, 1982, Kelly hails from Youngstown, Ohio.
Kelly started The Kelly Pavlik Charitable Organization to
provide health and wellness services to underprivileged
youth in the Mahoning Valley.
Our Mission
The Kelly Pavlik Charitable Organization empowers underserved youth across
the Mahoning Valley through fitness, mentorship, and supportive programming that strengthens
mental well-being, fosters academic success, and builds positive community connection.
Our Programs
KPCO’s youth development model uses fitness and boxing as gateways to mentorship, healing,
and life skills. Programming is offered five days per week at gyms in Boardman and Columbiana,
plus clinics with partners. Key components include: daily fitness & boxing instruction, mentorship
and counseling access, tutoring and academic support, nutrition support, and transportation.
Programs are staffed by trained coaches and mentors, supported by volunteers and partners,
ensuring safety and consistency.
01.
Fitness Training
& Boxing Instruction:
We offer free fitness programs at both our
Boardman and Columbiana gyms, and boxing
instruction for interested youth at our Boardman Gym.
02.
Health
& Wellness
We support the building of emotional resilience,
reducing stress, and gaining practical coping skills.
Participants report lower anxiety, increased confidence,
and stronger engagement in school.
03.
Nutrition Support:
We ensure youth have the energy and focus needed for strong
physical performance and overall health. Balanced nutrition helps
kids stay energized, recover faster, and concentrate better both
in school and during fitness activities.
04.
Transportation:
We ensure that lack of transportation never prevents a
young person from joining the program. When needed,
staff arrange reliable rides so participants can get to and
from the gym safely and consistently.
Looking Ahead
Our vision includes launching additional programs that strengthen families,
promote well-being, and deepen year-round support.
As KPCO grows, we are exploring new initiatives to meet the evolving needs of the communities
we serve—such as after-school meals for youth, on-site mental health support, and fitness
and wellness activities for senior community members. As we establish growing programming
and funding partnerships, KPCO will expand, offering safe, supportive spaces where individuals
of all ages can thrive.
Check Out The Organization’s Boxing Gym
Events
-
Rafflepalooza
WHEN? March 21, 2026
WHERE? Maronite Center | 1555 S. Meridian Rd, Youngstown, OH 44511
Help Our Cause
As we look ahead, the Kelly Pavlik Charitable Foundation plans on opening service hubs throughout Mahoning, Trumbull, and Columbiana Counties. These hubs will allow the organization to offer our programs to more in need throughout the community. In addition to the hubs, we are developing the organization’s main facility in Boardman, Ohio. The main facility will be a one-stop location, including our current programs, basketball and pickleball courts, weight-lifting equipment, and much more!
Your contribution will allow us to continue our goals of supporting underprivileged youth in the Mahoning Valley.