May 5, 2016, saw Helping Hoops celebrate six years of fun. The charity, which started in late 2009 and officially became incorporated in 2010, came from a simple idea – to provide underprivileged children with a space where they feel they belong and are exposed to positive values and life lessons through weekly contact with mentors and coaches who are able to guide them, both on and off the court.
Six years on, the number of programs may have increased, but this basic mission has remained the same.
In 2010, Helping Hoops ran one program each week, had one coach and one volunteer administrator, and a handful of volunteer committee members. In 2016, we now run eight weekly programs, over 350 yearly sessions, have five talented and dedicated coaches, two staff members, a thriving committee, and over 40 active volunteers that make the charity a vibrant and amazing place to be. We have partnerships with household names, put on events attracting thousands, and have fans and supporters all over the world.
It has been a busy six years.
So, with the self congratulations over, let us look forward to the next six years. We have plans to take Helping Hoops forward and reach even more communities who can benefit from our free programs. We believe we have something special to offer disadvantaged children across Melbourne, and our efforts are focused on resourcing the push to expand our programs, whilst still delivering our current initiatives at a high level.
Thanks goes out to all the volunteers, coaches, children, staff, families, committee members, ambassadors and supporters who have helped us help children thus far. Without you, there would be no six-year celebration. We are looking forward to driving ahead with your passion and support.
Happy birthday to us.
