Where Them Sneakers At? - Basketballs on the Court!

Hello, my name is Diana. I am fundraising for our Annual Barbershop Rap's 3on3 Basketball Tournament. We are keeping HOPE ALIVE!!!! Please give an " Act of Kindness" to our youths in the community. Once a year, Barber Shop Rap Mentoring Program, Sixth Grace Presbyterian Church, Ellis Park Advisory Council, and Community Partners organize an Annual 3on3 Basketball Tournament for our youths in the community. It will be held on August 2, 2025, which is the first Saturday in August.

My first time being at the tournament, I realize that the budget was limited for food and drinks (water, soft drinks and Gatorade). Who can play ball on a warm day, and only able to have one bottle of water or Gatorade? The following year, I committed to raising money and continued each year after. Sometimes, kids may not have eaten breakfast, but they want to play in this tournament. With your donations, some kids could take food home.

In a world where human interaction is limited, being a member of a sports team will provide a child with many life lessons that are difficult to get elsewhere: to have fun, to build relationships, and to learn teamwork while interacting with players their age. To improve and be successful, one needs self-discipline and focus. Teamwork in sports motivates players to compete. Athletes understand the importance of a strong leader that displays leadership skills.

The GoFundMe account had been created to pay for expenses: various food items, renting a bar-b-que a grill, soft drinks/water, Gatorade, trophies, T-shirts, gift cards, and more. We had the chance to buy a score board. This event, also being a family affair, everything is free. Gift cards will be able help kids with back-to-school clothes or school supplies. Every amount that we receive- WE SPEND ALL ON THE PLAYERS. GoFundMe fees will also be taken out.

I’m asking for help not for me, but for these kids who have already been through so much. Anything you can give will go directly toward this 2025 tournament. And if you’re not in a place to donate, just sharing this means more than you know.

Thank you, we extremely appreciate your support. Whatever monetary donation, that you can grace us with, will leave an everlasting memory for our youths.