Breaking the Cycle: Addressing Gun Violence & Empowering Our Youth
The Reality of Gun Violence
Gun violence continues to plague our communities, affecting families, schools, and neighborhoods. The numbers speak for themselves:
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Firearm-related deaths have become the number one cause of death for U.S. children and teens.
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Nearly 1,300 children under 18 are killed by guns annually.
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Youth in underserved communities are more likely to be exposed to gun violence, leading to trauma, fear, and limited opportunities.
The Challenges Our Youth Face
Many young people in our neighborhoods struggle with:
🔹 Lack of Safe Spaces – Few recreational centers, after-school programs, or mentorship opportunities.
🔹 Exposure to Violence – Many have lost friends and family to gun violence, creating emotional and psychological trauma.
🔹 Limited Opportunities – Economic struggles, underfunded schools, and lack of positive role models make it harder to break the cycle.
Our Impact
At Shoot Hoops Not Guns Classic, we use basketball as a tool for change. We directly impacted over 350 youth and young adults through our basketball league and community events.
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We give youth a place to build friendships, stay active, and develop life skills.
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We connect them with community leaders, athletes, and professionals who inspire them.
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We educate participants on conflict resolution and making better life choices.
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Dozens of former players have gone on to pursue higher education, trade programs, and careers in sports and community leadership.