Recipient organizations (to date) include: Forward Thinking Foundation (using sports as a vehicle to cultivate, inspire, prevent violence and guide youth toward a successful future)
The Forward Thinking Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, utilizes sports as a means to foster inspiration, prevent violence, and guide youth toward successful futures. With a focus on teaching life skills and engaging communities across the Twin Cities, Founder Derray Ward’s goal is to create numerous opportunities for youth development. Forward Thinking Basketball, is a part of the foundation's initiatives, which offers both boys' and girls' teams, 4ththrough 12th grade. Tryouts are held annually to determine team placements. Emphasizing self-esteem, confidence, and teamwork, the program also provides individualized skills training opportunities designed to help strengthen players' basketball IQ. Not only does Forward Thinking focus on physical health, they provide mental and emotional support to youth in their program.
Minnesota Chill Foundation (providing academic and athletic programming to educate student scholars for future success)
The MN CHILL Foundation offers comprehensive academic and athletic programs to prepare student scholars for success. The Minnesota CHILL Basketball program develops skills, leadership, and citizenship, while CHILL Fitness for Kids promotes health, and CHILL College Readiness supports higher education preparation. Founders Chuck and Cindy Hill focus on combining academics with athletics to address educational disparities. Their latest initiative, CHILL Tech, is a 24-week program introducing 16- to 24-year-olds to the tech industry, particularly targeting BIPOC youth. By collaborating with BIPOC IT professionals, it equips participants with IT skills for better job prospects. As a 501(c)(3) organization, the MN CHILL Foundation is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive tech workforce.
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association (benefitting the physical, mental, moral and character development of youth regardless of ability or financial status),
Brooklyn Park Athletic Association (BPAA) Basketball offers inclusive house league basketball for boys and girls in grades 1 through 12 from Brooklyn Park and Brooklyn Center. Their program prioritizes fun and equal participation, regardless of financial status, ensuring every player enjoys the game. The season runs from November to March, with registration opening on August 1 via the BPAA website. Financial assistance is available upon application on in-person registration dates (late registrations may be accepted with a $20 fee, if space allows). Participation rules ensure fairness and inclusion for all players, with no “playing up” or rostered traveling team members allowed. Participation rules ensure fairness and inclusion for all players, with no “playing up” or rostered traveling team members allowed. BPAA Basketball fosters a love for the game while promoting fairness and inclusion for all participants.
NextGen Legacy Foundation (cultivating and empowering the entrepreneurial spirit within students)
NextGen Legacy Foundation, is committed to inspiring and equipping the next generation with the tools and skills they need to thrive in today’s rapidly changing world.
Their vision is to create a community hub where youth can discover their potential, learn cutting-edge skills, and become leaders in sports, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Founded by Korboi Balla, a proud Brooklyn Center firefighter and father of four, the foundation was born out of a deep commitment to supporting youth in the community. With over 9 years of public service and a passion for empowering young minds, Korboi created NextGen Legacy Foundation as a beacon for innovation and opportunity.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities (creating and supporting relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth).
Big Brothers Big Sisters, established in 1920, has been transforming the lives of youth through mentoring relationships for over a century. Originating as an innovative solution to support at-risk youth in the criminal justice system, Big Brothers Big Sisters has evolved into the most esteemed mentoring organization globally, impacting the lives of more than half a million children in the Twin Cities alone. With a dedicated staff and a commitment to youth development, Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities matches mentors with youth, prioritizing authentic relationships, youth-centered approaches, and a sense of belonging. Through continuous learning and improvement, the organization ensures that every child has the opportunity to achieve their full potential, embodying justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in its mission and values.
