Who we are
The Beloved Community is a grassroots, faith-based non-profit organization dedicated to offering support for marginalized youth and families through recreation, resources, and community service.
We are dedicated to offering underserved youth and individuals the resources, opportunities, and support necessary for their success, aiming to break the cycle of poverty and establish a network that fosters lasting change in our community.
Beloved Community LLC 666 Egret Court Streetsboro, OH 44241 Phone: (234) 380-7293 & (330) 322-1028
Fiscal Sponsor: Another Chance of Ohio 2974 E. 65th St. Cleveland, Ohio 44127
County Partners: M.I.C. 6677 Garfield St. Ravenna, Ohio 44266
Homeless Services: Water at the Rock- Thursdays 3-5, 705 Oakwood St. Ravenna, Ohio 44266
Fiscal Sponsor
Another Chance of Ohio
Portage County Partnership
McElrath Improvement Corporation
Homeless Resources and Services
Water at the Rock: Free clothing, Showers and laundry for the Homeless.
M.I.C.-Beloved Community Recreation, Resources and Services "Recess Leagues"
Are you searching for a dynamic way to stay active, connect with new people, and embrace your competitive spirit? Your adventure starts here! Our recreational sports leagues strike the perfect balance between fun and competition, welcoming players of every skill level. Whether you are a seasoned player or just starting out, our leagues promise an enjoyable experience. So, lace up those sneakers and get ready to jump into the thrilling world of recreational sports! What Are Recreational Sports Leagues? Recreational sports leagues are local programs that let individuals engage in various sports without the pressure of professionalism. It's about inclusivity, sportsmanship, and most importantly, having fun while staying active. You can participate in sports like basketball, flag football, dodgeball, kickball, and more. For instance, in our basketball league, teams often develop lifelong friendships, with many players continuing to meet even after the season ends. Joining a recreational sports league doesn’t just involve physical activity; it also fosters connections among players. Many find that being part of a team enhances their experience, leading to lasting friendships that go beyond the field or court. Why Join Our Leagues? 1. Build a Sense of Community Joining a recreational sports league means becoming part of a vibrant community that shares a passion for sports and fitness. For example, in our kickball league, players report that they have built friendships with teammates they now see outside of the field. This sense of belonging is not only enjoyable but can also improve your mental health. 2. Improve Your Skills and Fitness Level Looking to enhance your sports skills? Our leagues have the perfect setup. We provide various training sessions, games, and events that cater to everyone, allowing participants to develop their abilities while enjoying healthy competition. Research shows that regular participation in recreational sports can improve your cardiovascular fitness by up to 20%, making it an excellent way to stay in shape. 3. Unleash Your Competitive Spirit For those who thrive in competitive settings, our leagues offer the perfect outlet! Engaging with teammates and opponents creates an exciting atmosphere for every match. Win or lose, the camaraderie pushes you to elevate your game. In our softball league, players often say they leave the field feeling accomplished, regardless of the score. Choose Your Sport! We offer a variety of sports to suit your interests. Here's a glimpse of the exciting options available: Flag Football Flag Football is not just about scoring touchdowns; it's a game of strategy and teamwork. Our flag football leagues welcome everyone, emphasizing stamina and agility. Players of all levels can join in thrilling games, with many reporting improved fitness and newfound skills. Basketball Basketball combines action with skill development. Whether you love shooting hoops or running plays, players of all abilities will find a spot in our leagues. In fact, data shows that participants have improved their shooting accuracy by 30% through regular practice. Dodgeball Dodgeball is perfect for those seeking an energetic way to stay fit. With both indoor and outdoor leagues available, players enjoy the thrill of dodging balls in this fast paced game for all ages. Kickball This classic sport emphasizes teamwork and collaboration. Enjoy friendly competition while honing your Kicking and fielding skills in a relaxed environment. Our participants often report that they learn more about teamwork through kickball than in other settings. Getting Involved is Easy! Embarking on your journey with our recreational sports leagues is straightforward. Here's how to get started: Choose Your Sport: Visit our website to explore the various leagues and choose the one that excites you the most. Register: Complete the registration form. Consider signing up with friends for an even better experience! Attend Orientation: We host an orientation session where you’ll get to meet your teammates, learn the rules, and gain important details about schedules. Have Fun!: With everything set, it's time to lace up those athletic shoes and enjoy your time on the field or court! Your Questions Answered What is the age requirement for joining? Our leagues are open to participants of all ages! We have divisions for children, teenagers, and adults, ensuring there is a league for everyone. Parents are invited to join alongside their children and teens, and they can also volunteer as coaches or mentors. Teenagers are encouraged to act as assistant coaches in non-competitive leagues for children and those with disabilities. Do I need to have prior experience? Not at all! Our leagues cater to every skill level. The focus is on having fun and improving together. What should I wear? We recommend comfortable athletic wear and proper footwear for safety. While specific uniform requirements may vary, comfort and functionality are our top priorities. Are there any fees involved? No, there is no fee to join, however we do ask for monetary donations which helps cover the costs of equipment and facilities. This investment supports the quality of your playing experience. Final Thoughts Our recreational sports leagues create the perfect environment for getting active, making new friends, and igniting your competitive spirit. Regardless of whether you choose Flag Football, basketball, Dodgeball, or Kickball, you'll find enjoyment and growth through participation. So why wait any longer? Sign up today and uncover the joy of teamwork and competition! Ready to embrace your inner athlete? Join us and be a part of something wonderful! Your exciting journey in recreational sports is just around the corner!
Beloved Community Closet & Water at the Rock Resources and Services
Beloved Community Closet provides free new and gently used clothing, household goods, furniture, and appliances to families in need or in transition. Water at the Rock offers free showers and laundry services for the homeless.
These services meet essential needs and support marginalized individuals and families. By creating opportunities for youth and adults to gain practical experience through community service, they help fulfill college, court-ordered, or volunteer service requirements, boosting confidence and paving the way to a brighter future.
**Days of Operation: **
- Tuesday's & Thursday's 3- 6pm
Youth Expressions Service Learning Corps.
Beloved Community Youth Expression Service Learning introduces youth ages 8 – 16 to a variety of diversity, social and leadership development activities through community service.
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Leadership, social and professional development.
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Resume' building
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Identify and secure essential resources for self, family and peers.
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Participate in sports and recreational activities.
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Assist with Community Gardening and Beautification
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Help facilitate activities for seniors, families and peers
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provide volunteer support to partnering agencies.
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Fulfill the requirements of community service for college credits and/or to complete their obligations of court ordered service.
Days of Operation:
Saturdays
noon - 7pm
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Explore our gallery to see the positive impact that Good Neighbors, Members, Service Workers and Youth are making in our community. Your support plays a vital role in ensuring families have access to clothing, food, and essential resources for their spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Together, we can foster kindness and promote community service learning that uplifts those in need. Thank for being a part of this meaningful journey!
B.C. Youth Expressions Club Service
The term "Beloved Community" was popularized by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. throughout his activism. His concept of the Beloved Community evolved over time, driven by his belief in its possibility. King envisioned the Beloved Community as one that bridges the divide between the affluent and the disadvantaged, offering hope to the forgotten and marginalized members of society. Established in July 2020, Beloved Community Corporation has dedicated itself to nurturing a supportive atmosphere in Portage, Cuyahoga, and Summit Counties in Northeastern Ohio. This has been made possible by the generosity of our "Good Neighbors," a term for our members, volunteers, and supporters. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we provided hope to young adults and families through online and in-person programs, free clothing, food, household items, community service supervision, mentoring, and other resources for those in need. With support from A.C.O.O. "Another Chance of Ohio" and M.I.C. "McElrath Improvement Corporation," the Beloved Community continues to offer crucial assistance to marginalized individuals, families, and youth across these counties. Another Chance of Ohio, as our fiscal sponsor, has guided us through the challenges of developing a community change agency, empowering us to pursue a tangible representation of Dr. King’s vision. Our collaboration with McElrath Improvement Corporation "M.I.C." began in spring 2025. Established in April 1969, M.I.C.'s founders were committed to uplifting the McElrath Community in Ravenna, OH, from the start. M.I.C. has been instrumental in the development of the McElrath allotment, established in 1920 in north Ravenna, and the Skeels allotment, established in the early 1950s in south Ravenna. At one point, the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development ranked Skeels and McElrath as the third worst rural ghettos in the United States. In the 1950s, land in these regions was extremely cheap, with some plots being given away as door prizes at a Cleveland movie theater as a promotional gimmick. News of available land quickly reached Black residents in nearby urban areas who wanted to escape the crowded city life. However, new residents encountered significant challenges, but as the saying goes, "without struggle, there is no progress." Deseree Mitchell-Liddell, a longtime resident of the Skeels community, understood this struggle well. Like many Black women throughout history, she bore the burdens of her community and fought for change. In the 1960s, she organized residents to demand better living conditions from Ravenna Township trustees and commissioners. When their requests were ignored, she began providing essential services to the community herself. She initiated a youth program and a senior citizens club in her own home, which later moved to future Skeels community centers. The first Skeels community center was a small, one-room building on Arbeco Street, lacking plumbing, windows, a furnace, and with just one door, but it was filled with love, perseverance, and dedication. These qualities are emblematic of Black resilience, established in both the Skeels and McElrath communities. Today, the progress of these communities is evident not only in the modern community centers with multiple rooms, large kitchens, computer labs, and children's areas but also in the lives positively influenced by their efforts. Building on a legacy of positive change, the M.I.C. Beloved Community Partnership was established to bridge the generational gap in Ravenna, OH, including the McElrath and Skeels communities and nearby areas. The initiative continues the fight for equality, respect, and upward mobility, ensuring everyone is valued and cared for in all communities.
AARON MITCHELL
Aaron Mitchell brings nearly 30 years of experience in Youth Advocacy, Training, Supervision, and Community Engagement. As a graduate of Grand Rapids, MI. Job Corps, he has received two Father of the Year awards from the Fatherhood Initiative of Cuyahoga County, Ohio, as well as a Community Relations Award from the City of Cleveland.
As an alumnus of AmeriCorps' City Year Cleveland and Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA), he has worked as a community organizer, advocate, coach, and mentor. Aaron has also completed the Police Academy of Cleveland's 3rd District and the Youth Philanthropy Institute of San Diego, CA. through the Youth Opportunities Cleveland Initiative.
Although he narrowly missed becoming City Council President in his hometown of Maple Hts, OH, Aaron remains committed to making a positive impact in his community and the lives of the youth he serves. He believes in the potential of every individual to succeed with the right opportunities and, inspired by his faith, love of family, friends and figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., founded The Beloved Community Corps. to promote hope and growth in others.
Dr. SHAKERA MITCHELL PsyD
I am a research psychologist with a doctorate in applied science, driven by a passion for understanding how the human mind works and how those insights can improve people’s lives. My academic journey has centered on exploring the ways the brain is wired, with a particular focus on cultivating healthy relationships and applying psychological principles to real-world challenges.
Throughout my professional experience, I’ve combined rigorous research with practical application, ensuring that my work is not only evidence-based but also accessible and impactful. I value integrity, empathy, and lifelong learning, and I aim to bring these qualities into every project and collaboration.
At the core, my work is about helping individuals and communities thrive through a deeper understanding of the mind, behavior, and human connection.
Why your support matters
The Beloved Community thrives on the support of caring neighbors and generous donors who help us achieve our mission of providing compassionate, high-quality programs, resources, and solutions to assist those in need. Our aim is to decrease poverty, delinquency, crime, and discrimination while promoting opportunity, reconciliation, and support. Each hour volunteered and every donation—whether it's time, money, clothing, or household items—empowers us to support youths, families, and individuals in need. Join us as a Good Neighbor and help build a flourishing community working together to break the cycle of poverty and foster lasting change.
