Speaking during the Chino Youth Boxing Banquet, California Institution for Men (CIM) leaders encouraged the young athletes to continue reaching for their goals. While at the banquet, the CIM officials also showed the incarcerated population’s support by presenting a check for $3,500.
Travis Pennington, acting warden, and acting Chief Deputy Warden Eric Mejia attended the Feb. 23 banquet. Pennington was one of several invited guest speakers including the Chino mayor, chief of police, and fire department chief.
“This sport will give you self-esteem and self-respect. It will build character and discipline that will last you a lifetime.”
Travis Pennington, acting Warden
California Institution for Men (CIM)
The Chino Boxing Club began in the late 1960s as a gang-diversion and intervention program for the local youth. To date, the club honors their athletes during the annual banquet. They recognize boxers for each month as well as those who displayed outstanding sportsmanship. There are also awards for most-improved boxer and the boxer of the year.
Inspiring the young athletes, Pennington urged them to continue with their boxing.
“This sport will give you self-esteem and self-respect. It will build character and discipline that will last you a lifetime,” he said.
To support the club’s efforts, the CIM population held food sales, allowing them to donate over $3,500 to program.
CIM is looking forward to doing more with the incarcerated population and the Chino community.
“Together I believe we can achieve great things,” Pennington said. “I was honored when they asked me to be part of this event.”
Submitted by Lt. Paul Ybarra
California Institution for Men, Chino
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