Mission Statement
SquashWise partners with Baltimore’s youth and families to advance equity in squash, education, and personal development opportunities. We are a dedicated agent of change providing a place where students reach their academic, athletic, and life goals and where the squash community becomes more accessible and welcoming for all.
Statement of Purpose
Our Statement of Purpose defines SquashWise’s purpose and values as an organization. View the full statement, which was developed collaboratively through feedback from our staff, students, families, and Board of Directors.
History
Founded in 2007, SquashWise utilizes the sport of squash to bring people together in community and to support them in reaching their goals. SquashWise was co-founded by a group of passionate squash players — Abby Markoe, Doug Hoffberger, Nancy Cushman, Peter Heffernan, and Charlie Wise. The organization greatly benefitted from their leadership along with early seed funding from the Squash and Education Alliance, operational support from Maryland Squash, and a generous facility donation from Meadow Mill Athletic Club.
SquashWise began with just 14 students in our afterschool youth development program. Over time, we have grown the size of that program, added a postsecondary support component for alumni, and introduced school and community squash programs as a way for more youth and adults to engage.
We are advancing our mission at our new home — The SquashWise Center! The Center is located at the former Greyhound bus terminal in the heart of Downtown Baltimore. Since its opening in early 2026, the facility has become a “third space” for youth development and community recreation.
