Columbia International University Men’s Basketball Coach Tony Stockman says CIU’s annual “Hoop for Hope” outreach is not just about showing youth how to hone their basketball skills, but also “being able to share the hope in Jesus Christ with them.”

Over 150 campers, comprised of 10-16-year-old boys and girls from the neighborhoods near the CIU campus attended the weeklong July event. They were coached and mentored by members of the CIU Rams men’s and women’s basketball teams.     

The Rams’ Bryce Causey says “Hoop for Hope” is about building relationships with youth, especially those who come to the CIU campus each year for the event.

“They remember our names, we remember their names,” said the junior Business Administration major from Greensboro, North Carolina.  “I think they see us as role models, as college athletes. We lead them in basketball, but also to Christ.”

As the campers improve their play with drills and games, they also huddle in small group Bible studies, and gather corporately to listen to devotionals from local church leaders. The free camp even includes a bus service to pick up the campers.

The name of the camp comes from Jeremiah 29:11 "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'Plans to give you HOPE and a future.'" with the purpose of sharing the hope that comes with having a relationship with Jesus.

Check out local media coverage of Hoop for Hope by Amanda Poole of WACH FOX 57 in Columbia:

"Somebody does care": CIU hosts annual outreach camp Hoop For Hope

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