Meet Nathan Atkinson | JROTC instructor and Track and field Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nathan Atkinson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nathan, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Reflecting on my path from growing up in the projects to returning value to the community highlights the transformative impact of community support and mentorship. Coach Danny Turner’s selflessness during my middle school basketball tryouts, providing transportation when needed, exemplified kindness. Charles Martin further enriched my life by recruiting me into the community-supported summer track and field program, offering travel opportunities, connections with diverse athletes, and exposure to new experiences. These defining moments cultivated resilience, gratitude, and a commitment to contributing positively to the community that invested in me.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

Prestige Athletic Club, a nonprofit, supports Joliet-area youth development through academic, athletic, creative, and professional initiatives. As USA Track and Field members, we offer training and competition for all ages, cultivating leadership through track and field participation, coaching, and mentorship in aspirations, financial literacy, college readiness, and entrepreneurship, partnering with BMO, Joliet Public Library, John Real Estate, Joliet West High School, and Pro Motion Performance.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Truthfully, my priorities have shifted, and I no longer crave the social scene as much as I did before. My professional life keeps me busy, and when I do have free time, I indulge in relaxation. Every so often, I’ll explore local dining options, like that charming little restaurant just down the street from my house, especially if they offer delectable tacos. While I still appreciate occasional get-togethers, my wilder days are a distant memory, and now I find fulfillment in activities that make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. Consequently, if you’re on the lookout for community event suggestions, I’m not the perfect go-to person unless it specifically involves teaming up with kids.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Wife Sherwanda Atkinson
Mother Vivian’ Atkinson
My kids, Jaelen, Jaedon and Nathan
Mentors, Danny Turner, Charles Martin, Tim Graf, Edward Turner, Robert Thomas, Chris Gordon, Benjamin Anom, Ryan Shrock, Benjamin White and Ron Atkins
Brother Robert Atkinson
Best friends Michael Hester, Derrick Moore, Pervis Samuel, Marcus Mars.
Coaches Essence wisdom, Anaiah Edmon, Renae Haaker

Website: https://www.prestigeathleticclub.org/about

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prestige_athletic_club_inc?igsh=dnU2Nmxxb3F6aHo3&utm_source=qr

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@PrestigeAC

Image Credits
Ronald Veal
Wayne McNair