Mar
26
2009
With March Madness in full swing, basketball is all over tv, on social networks, and the source of buzz (and trashtalk) around the watercooler. I first realized how basketball could make or break my day (or week) in college. When my friends and I drove through the night to St. Louis to watch our UNC Tar Heels win the national championship, I wasn't sure basketball could ever seem more important or wonderful. What I love to see now is that basketball is also being used to give people much more, as fans and foes alike are teaming up in different ways to use basketball for good.
And so, in honor of March Madness, I drafted a list of five ways basketball gives back. Don't see your favorite hoops-related charity? Add yours below!
- Coaches vs. CancerA partnership between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches, Coaches vs. Cancer was sparked by former University of Missouri head coach Norm Stewart's challenge to his fans to pledge a dollar amount for every three points scored by his team. Now more than 500 college coaches have been involved in raising about $40 million for cancer research, awareness and advocacy.
- PeacePlayers International (PPI)PPI is an innovative U.S.-based nonprofit which uses basketball to bridge social divides, foster reconciliation and develop leadership skills among youth in communities such as the Middle East, South Africa and Northern Ireland. Since 2001, more than 45,000 children have participated in PPI programs, learning to play and live together despite their differences. The Today Show recently did a great piece on PPI's Northern Ireland program.
- Samaritan's FeetSamaritan's Feet is dedicated to distributing shoes to 10 million children worldwide in 10 years. The organization has garnered support from more than 300 youth, high school, and basketball coaches, including Butler's Brad Stevens, Indiana State's Kevin McKenna, and Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis's Ron Hunter, who have all committed to coaching one game barefoot as part of a shoe-collecting campaign.
- Nothing But NetsNothing But Nets is a grassroots campaign launched by Sports Illustrated writer Rick Reilly, who asked his readers to donate at least $10 to the UN Foundation for anti-malaria bed nets. With help from partners like NBA Cares, Reilly and Nothing But Nets have mobilized tens of thousands of people to help prevent malaria, which is the leading killer of children in Africa.
- Hoops for HopeHoops for Hope works with schools and community organizations to provide youth development and life skills - from hygene to critical thinking - in Zimbabwe and South Africa. With coaches doubling as role models and teachers, Hoops for Hope uses basketball clinics and tournaments as a platform to help prepare children for success.
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