GILBERT, Ariz. — An East Valley group is working tirelessly to provide essential tools for kids when it comes to sports, specifically basketball. The young athletes with the Desert Storm Christian Ballers are given the opportunity to play organized sports when they otherwise couldn't afford it.
Lena Freeman the Founder of the nonprofit told 12News she started the group three years ago when her mother passed away and she noticed her 4 boys were really struggling.
"It was the middle of the pandemic, and they lost their grandma and I just really wanted to give them an outlet," she explained.
Freeman said the non-exclusive group allows the kids to interact and play a game they love while having guidance and support along the way.
"We provide mentoring, uniforms, travel, in fact, we have a big van called 'Big Bertha' where we can pick up the kids and take them to Valley tournaments and give them that exposure," Freeman added.
12News wants to continue to spotlight resources for teens and kids to give them confidence and teach them independence. This is the mission of this nonprofit, Freeman said. Along with basketball, there's counseling, mentorship and tutoring. There are 65 athletes ages 4-19 who participate, and among the adults are volunteer staff and coaches.
"We want them to have a safe place to go and a meal to eat, it's much more than a game and we always want to get that message across," she said.
If these kids need shoes, guidance or help with homework, the Desert Storm Christian Ballers are going to make sure they get it. The requirements: be a kid and love the game.
The group is hosting a gala at the end of April to raise funds for their efforts.
>> Contact: DesertStormBasketBallClub@gmail.com
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