We assist in building courage, character and perseverance in teens and pre-teens. We ignite strength and wisdom in them so that they become leaders and teachers, or whatever they dream to be. We are a New Jersey and New York evidence based program.
In 1998 Heroes & Cool Kids started in just three school districts – Glen Rock, Perth Amboy and Monmouth New Jersey. To date, twenty eight hundred high school “heroes” are reaching over 22,000 elementary school youngsters. At least 10 new schools will join us in the fall.
Former professional athletes and potential teen leaders attend conferences at Bergen Community College and/or Vonage on how to become mentors in their schools. The teens then, throughout the school year, November to May, mentor middle school students on important life skills. These skills include sportsmanship, conflict resolution and positive lifestyle choices highlighting drug, alcohol and tobacco prevention.
Same Mission.
Different Platforms.
Due to COVID restrictions, the Heroes and Cool Kids program is available both in person and virtually this year.
Bruce Harper, president and co-founder of Heroes & Cool Kids, played with the New York Jets for eight years, from 1977 to 1985. He led the NFL with more than 2,000 all-purpose yards for two consecutive years, and he led the AFC in the same category for four years. He was voted the Jets MVP in 1980, was a two-time Pro Bowl alternate, and held nine Jets records at one time. Several of those records stand today.
Please join our Alumni Association to stay informed about upcoming events.
Heroes & Cool Kids
P.O. Box24
Norwood, NJ 07648
Phone: 201-641-0699
Fax: 201-641-1508
pros@heroesandcoolkids.org