PEORIA (25News Now) – A new Program is launching, to help combat violence in Peoria.

HOOPS (Honorable, Oneness, Opportunity, Patriarch, Selfless) Inc. held a press conference Saturday morning to announce the upcoming launch of a free Basketball Program for men.

In addition to basketball, the program will include a class led by ministers from Word of Faith Christian Center, aiming to instill hope, inspiration, and leadership skills. Only 50 men, ages 21 and older will be selected for the program and paired with a mentor. The group will meet every Friday at Richwoods High School.

The mission of HOOPS Inc. is to provide a positive impact in the lives of all participants through the game of basketball by providing physical, spiritual, and emotional support through various avenues by empowering men to become leaders, providers, and protectors according to the teachings of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

They’re hoping that by launching this program it will give men in their community an outlet.

The man responsible for the program, Willie Williams says,”I believe this program will be able to save lives and saves souls, and that’s the most important thing to me, to be selfless and to serve.”

Tryouts for those interested in joining the program will be September 29th at Richwoods High School at 9am. The season will start October 13th and will run through January of 2024.

If you have any questions regarding HOOPS Inc., you can email them at [email protected]

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