Hey everyone,

If you know me, you know basketball isn’t just something I do. It’s who I am. I’ve spent countless hours on the court shooting, missing, learning, laughing, and growing. Over time I’ve realized the court isn’t just a place to play. It’s where community happens. It’s where friendships are built, where we push each other, and where we learn how to show up for our team.

Here in Philly, we’ve been lucky to have so many courts fixed up, and that’s changed everything for kids like me. It gives us a place to belong, to dream, and to work hard. That’s what inspired me when I met Jared Armstrong, a Philly guy who now plays professionally in Israel’s National League. But what really inspired me is what he’s doing off the court.

Jared started JAB Camp, an organization that uses basketball to build bridges and combat hate. He focuses on fighting racism and antisemitism by bringing people together through the game. JAB Camp runs programs all across Israel, helping kids from different backgrounds connect and grow together. Through JAB Courts, Jared and his team have already renovated three basketball courts in Israel, with a goal to rebuild and create more than 100 in the next three years.

For my Bar Mitzvah project, I’m launching this fundraiser to support JAB Courts and their next renovation in Ashkelon. Basketball has taught me leadership, teamwork, and how to be a better person both on and off the court. Now I want to help give that same opportunity to others.

Thanks for being here, for supporting this project, and for helping make a difference.

Luka