Listen to Basketball Manitoba Executive Director speak about the program on CJOB Radio with Geoff Currier n on July 11, 2007
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The project has continued to grow in 2007 with 130 basketballs already distributed to children in grade 6 in 5 different inner city elementary schools including Pinkham, Mulvey, King Edward, Machray and Wellington Schools.
In the next couple of weeks, several dozen balls will also go to kids in summer programs at Dufferin and Norquay Schools with more balls planned for programs at Magnus Eliason Recreation Centre and Rossbrook House later in the summer.
The target heading into 2008 will be to distribute 500 basketballs on an annual basis.
The program is in need of more volunteers and financial resources. Those interested or able to help can contact Dennis at 888-6336 or dbayomi@mts.net.
Project organizer Dennis Bayomi commented, "During my visits to the schools, it's become all the more obvious they really need our help. From the principals' reports, the kids were ecstatic to receive a basketball at the end of their time at those schools! I'd especially like to see us be able to fix up and expand their outdoor basketball play areas for next year!"
Basketball Manitoba is a registered not-for-profit organization and is the Provincial Sport Governing Body for basketball in the province of Manitoba. Managed by a Board of 10 Directors elected by its members, the Board is tasked with ensuring that all Manitobans have access to the programs run by the association and that the game of basketball is enjoyed by as many people possible.
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For further information, please contact:
Dennis Bayomi
Basketballs for Inner City Kids Project Coordinator
dbayomi@mts.net
(P) 204-888-6336
or
Adam Wedlake - EMAIL
Basketball Manitoba – Executive Director
(P) 204-925-5775