Shooting hoops for Haiti
Island Garden Arena in West Hempstead hosts basketball fundraiser
Dozens of people came out to the Island Garden Arena in West Hempstead on Saturday, Feb. 13 to shoot some hoops for Haiti.
A variety of activities were set up to keep children, and their parents, entertained throughout the day, which began at 11 a.m. and ended at 5 p.m. The first two hours were filled with fierce competition as children grades two through 12 participated in shooting contests. The playing was even more intense during the three-on-three game.
Additonally, a silent actions was held throughout the day for those who wanted to participate in a less phyiscal way.
Auction items included a Kobe Bryant autographed ball, a Lakers’ starting five autographed ball, tickets for Knicks, Rangers and Mets games, prizes autographed by Darryl Strawberry and Steph Curry, gift cards to BLT Restaurant and free camps at Island Garden Arena, among others.
Funds raised during the event, the amount of which was undetermined as of press time, will be matched by an unnamed benefactor. All of the proceeds will be donated to the Clinton/Bush Haiti Fund.
“We wanted to pick a reputable charity that was donating a large portion of donations to the Haitian people,” said IGA spokesman Ron Remick when asked why that particular organization was chosen. “This charity is backed by 2 presidents and seemed to fit.”
The Island Garden Arena assumed all administrative costs.
Many people and businesses, donated products, time and volunteers to help make this a successful event, Remick said.
