PowerForward runs multiple basketball and education programs during the year. These events bring 500+ Haitian youth together to learn about the sport; receive meals, sneakers and clothes; and be inspired by success stories of PowerForward athletes playing in US high schools, colleges and professionally.
In Haiti, there are limited opportunities for youth living in poverty to change their circumstances. Haiti is one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere with a broken education system. 95% of schools are private and require fees beyond what many families can pay. In addition, there are limited outlets for students to develop vital skills, especially teamwork and leadership that come from participating in organized sports.
For the past ten years, PowerForward has recruited and trained 45+ Haitian student athletes creating a legacy of success and hope. At each camp, a handful of promising athletes are identified and brought to the US to live with host families and attend premier high schools. Many go on to top tier universities, setting themselves, their families, and their country up for success. PowerForward also provides scholarships for Haitian youth to continue their circle of education and grow opportunities.
PowerForward athletes and scholarship recipients become leaders and providers for their families and communities. A number of graduates have gone on to play professional basketball in the US and Europe. Many have returned to Haiti where they continue to inspire youth to dream big and work hard.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
