Hoops for H.O.P.E.

HOOPS for H.O.P.E.

Helping Other Players Excel

OVERVIEW

The Hoops for H.O.P.E. Project is an outreach program designed to unite people and community in an atmosphere of giving, service, and mentorship. The project is instituted annually during the Florida vs. USA Hardwood Classic, part of the 13th Annual Senior Showcase All-Star Weekend.

Goal:

Youth players will be selected from an under served Orlando community to participate in the project. The youth will be chosen through a special selection process that reinforces the values of giving, education, mentoring, and service to the community.

Unite:

Each of the selected youth will be paired-up with an All-Star player from the Florida vs. USA Hardwood Classic.

Community:

The pairs of youth and All-Stars will lead a local community service project in the Orlando area. Projects could include a basketball court restoration, park clean-up project, dedicated wall mural, free basketball clinic, or other projects determined by the host organization. Materials, supplies and additional resources for the project are donated and provided by local sponsors and supporters.

Mentorship:

In addition, a ‘big brother’ type agreement would be signed by the youth and All-Stars pledging to remain alcohol and drug-free as well as to remain in contact with each other through a social media networking systems after the weekend has concluded. This extends the connection and commitment beyond the boundaries of the event. The concept adds an additional level of accountability to each player. The youth would follow the career of their All-Star athlete as they advance through their college, pro, or general career. The All-Star athlete would follow the development of the young youth athlete as they progress through school and activities while serving as a mentor for advice, help, and support.

Reward:

The selected youth would also participate in a variety of special activities throughout the event weekend including special V.I.P. treatment during section the 3-Point Shootout, Slam Dunk Contest, and Florida vs. USA Hardwood Classic All-Star Game. The youth would also receive an official event t-shirt, autographed basketball, and more.

Education:

Through an additional selection process, pre-determined by the host organization and event, one of the selected youth would be chosen to receive the Special Student-Athlete Award and Scholarship. This scholarship would be used to further the education and career of the recipient.