from hoops to hope : initiatives that moves the community forward

 Hoops B4 Streets is a non profit organization. We do business as Play 4 Keeps inc. to honor of our late coach Coach Bakeer Bok Green  who was gunned downed in the city of Philadelphia. We take everyday personal so we are the boots on the ground to make difference 

Utilizing basketball as a transformative tool for violence prevention can have a significant impact on individuals and the community as a whole. Here are ways we articulate our approach and the benefits that our programs offer:

Skill Development:  We teach essential life skills, teamwork, leadership, and communication. These skills are crucial for personal development and can help participants build positive relationships on and off the court.

Mentorship Opportunities: We get the community involved by allowing them to mentor our youth, making them coaches and mentors. This has been proven to provide guidance and support to our youth. Helping them navigate challenges both on and off the court by hosting group open conversations and truama therapy. Mentorship can foster a sense of belonging and purpose.

Conflict Resolution: Through basketball, participants can learn important conflict resolution techniques. The game requires players to work through challenges, which can translate into better handling of real-life conflicts.

Community Engagement: Organizing community events and basketball tournaments has strengthen our community ties and created a supportive environment. This also has  foster a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation that often lead to violence.

Health and Wellness: Physical activity through basketball promotes health and wellness, reducing stress and improving mental health. A healthy body contributes to a healthy mind, which is vital in violence prevention and truama recovery.

Empowerment and Self-Esteem: Participation in sports can boost self-esteem and empower individuals. Feeling accomplished in a sport can translate to confidence in other areas of life, encouraging youth to make positive choices.

Educational Support: Incorporating educational components, such as workshops on life skills,  building trades ,private sectors and unions , financial literacy, career planning, and academics ,can further equip participants for success beyond basketball. 

Creating Safe Spaces : Our programs provides safe, structured environments where youth can express themselves, learn, and grow away from the influences of violence. School based and recreation center based program locations.

Storytelling and Sharing Expriences : We Encourage participants to share their stories and experiences related to violence and resilience. This can create a sense of community and understanding, fostering empathy and support among peers.

Building Resilience: We Teach resilience through the challenges faced in sports, helping participants learn to cope with setbacks and develop a  next play and growth mindset.

By emphasizing these aspects, we can effectively communicate the holistic nature of our violence prevention approach and the transformative power of basketball in the lives of community members.