Our Team
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Jalen Best
Co-Founder
Hometown:
Charlotte, North Carolina
Schools/Organizations:
Rocky River High School
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
The Mu Iota Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.
“My inspiration actually came the summer of 2020 around the time our world was in turmoil due to the pandemic and events happening with the Black Lives Matter movement. The George Floyd incident to be specific. I decided to create Hoop4Change Foundation Inc. to help make a difference in our community in a way that I felt would bring the most people together. So we could breakdown the barriers between us and law enforcement.”
“The city of Charlotte means so much to us here. If you were to ask any of my friends where they’re from, they will proudly hold up the “4” fingers smile and yell Charlotte, NC. So we wanted to create something that will help create a difference here in our city.”
“Then I thought, I know so many people who love the game of basketball so what better way than to create an organization that would organize basketball events, functions, and fundraisers that directly impact our community and help to create more of an understanding among our people.”
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Elijah Powell
Co-Founder
Hometown:
Long Island, NY
Schools/Organizations:
Rocky River High School
Nassau Community College
University Of North Carolina at Charlotte
Army Reserve
“My inspiration for creating Hoop4Change Foundation Inc. was contingent on giving the everyday amateur baller today. A convenient but productive way to play pick-up basketball.”
“Ultimately, encouraging the participation of more organized hoop sessions, while practicing micro-philanthropy. It’s quite fascinating , knowing that we’ve created a business model that benefits all parties involved. This would include our players, donors, and the youth in our community who we dedicate our service to.”