New York, NY (1888PressRelease)
March 20, 2008 - Over eleven hundred excited spectators filled the stands in the New Rochelle High School gym to capacity on Saturday, March 15th to watch students, teachers and community leaders challenge the NFL Players in a fun-filled evening of basketball and entertainment. The games were thrown into full swing with Mayor Noam Bramson tossing the first jump ball.
"This exciting event brought together hundreds of local families for an evening of fun, while helping to raise essential resources for community groups. For players and fans alike, it was a great experience." Stated New Rochelle Mayor, Noam Bramson.
The Game gave young athletes an opportunity to experience the challenge, excitement, and triumphs of participating in a major sport event against the pros. Different teams comprised of young children, teenage girls and boys took turns performing a full court press against the celebrity team. The non-stop action energized the large turn out of spectators.
“On behalf of the entire New Rochelle community, I wish to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation for your efforts in supporting the Dare to Dream basketball fund raiser on March 15. The crowd was among the largest I've seen turn out for an event on a Saturday night. Even more importantly, I can't tell you how many parents, students and faculty were asking for these kinds of activities to happen on a regular basis. The thought of coming to a fun filled evening activity where kids and parents feel safe and can run around with friends in a supervised environment for a reasonable cost is something we should work towards making happen for all to enjoy.” Stated Richard Organisciak, Superintendent
All the excitement and fun experienced by the players and spectators created a memorable gathering for this worthwhile fund raiser benefiting our young people in the community. Proceeds from the “Dare to Dream” basketball tournament were donated to the New Rochelle Special Education PTA, the Museum of Arts & Culture, Dreams for Kids and Giolai. Each benefactor shares a common philosophy and goal, which is to help children and adolescents in need, via a multitude of programs that increases confidence and promote positive development.
“My intention when Lonnie and I approached the school district about putting such an event together was to find a way to raise money for our leadership programs at New Rochelle High School and bring the families and community together for a night of fun. Saturday’s event accomplished both. I am looking forward to having an even greater event next year!” said Pamela N. Njapa-Minyard, Founder/Executive Director of Giolai (Girls Institute of Leadership and Abundance Integration). Pamela adds, “In my leadership sessions with the girls, we talk about leadership not only as a concept but as an experience, the girls from our after-school program were able to take a leadership position when serving as volunteers. Hands-on skills and opportunities for leadership were demonstrated tonight, that was very important to me”.
As part of the evening’s half-time celebration New Rochelle High School honored their native son and graduate of New Rochelle High School Ray Rice. Rice was given a Service Award for his community involvement. Ray said, "I love coming back home and letting the kids know that they can make it in whatever they want. I'm happy to make New Rochelle proud.” Rice received a standing ovation from the sold out crowd.
"State Farm is very proud to be a Gold sponsor of this event because it will help to enhance the lives of the youth in our community. We were very pleased with the turn out said,"Jeannine N. Blanco, MBA Multicultural Markets Specialist
Professional Sports Players included:
Lee Rouson, New York Giants Odessa Turner, New York Giants
Kevin Riley, Portland Trailblazers Harry Flaherty, Dallas Cowboys
Allen Swindall, Seattle Supersonics Sam Washington, Cleveland Cavaliers
Derrick “The Wiz” Murphy, Harlem Globetrotters
“The New Rochelle High School Celebrity Game was truly a winner for all participants and supporters in which the many sponsors deserve a tremendous number of kudos. It was a fun opportunity for so many to share and impact young lives in a positive and constructive way. “
Stated, Councilman James Stowe, New Rochelle
About Benefactors:
Dreams for Kid’s Inc. is a non-profit organization that is passionate about helping kids reach their dreams in life. Dreams for Kid’s mission is to help build a child’s character by giving them the tools they need to believe in them selves and respect others. Through interaction with current and former professional athletes as mentors we want the children to understand the importance of education and inspire them to become great people in society. The “Dare to Dream” curriculum is designed to reach adolescents ages 7-18 years of age. It is an educational support program that concentrates on providing the maturing adolescent with valuable information about LIFE experiences. Dream for Kids was founded by former NFL Player Lonnie Allgood.
Giolai (gee-oh-lay) is a Westchester based not-for-profit 501(c) 3 organization dedicated to enhancing the future for girls 11 to 18 who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Giolai helps girls to become responsible, self-reliant and successful students who will grow into equally successful adults and members of their communities. Giolai's curriculum encompasses hands on leadership training, health education, etiquette sessions, and academic excellence. Giolai programs are being delivered throughout Westchester and the Bronx in after-school settings to empower and educate girls of color, mostly from underserved communities. The Giolai program is currently running in the New Rochelle, Yonkers, Mt. Vernon, and New York City School District. For more information visit the website at www.Giolai.org
