NEW ORLEANS, LA and SPRINGFIELD, MA.- The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame announced today during NBA All-Star weekend a partnership with two national organizations, Communities in Schools and Leadership Foundations. The goal of the cause marketing effort is to inspire youth in need towards success through interaction with Hall of Famers and fundraising efforts.
“This new partnership will bring a world of positivity to underprivileged children and we are thrilled to be a part of something truly special,” said John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Basketball Hall of Fame. “The fact that the game of basketball and our Hall of Famers have the power to inspire children to achieve success in life is remarkable and it is an honor for us to work towards making this difference.”
Communities in Schools was founded in the 1970’s by Bill Milliken, one of the nation’s biggest advocates for leading young people towards graduation and its board is chaired by Elaine Wynn, also the Chairman and Director of Wynn Resorts. The organization is a nationwide network of professionals working towards the enrichment of children.
Leadership Foundations, founded by Reid Carpenter more than 50 years ago, is a global network of nearly 50 cities that consists of individuals and organizations working to transform their cities through effective and collaborative leadership. Scott Lewis COO of Leadership Foundations and father of Ryan Lewis, famed producer, DJ and musical partner with rapper Macklemore were both present at the announcement.
“Partnering with the Basketball Hall of Fame will not only increase awareness of continued challenges kids face today but will expand the important role of mentors in the lives of thousands of children and strengthen our effort to build community leaders for the future.,” said Scott Lewis. “We are excited to work with CIS and the Hall to see what kind of differences we can make in the lives of our youth.”