The Heal the Hood (HTH) Foundation Celebrity Weekend is back for its 15th year, with a star-studded line-up and a meaningful message. The theme for this year’s event, taking place on June 7th and 8th, is “Don’t Kill My Future,” a phrase frequently used by HTH to bring attention to the need to stop violence in the Bluff City.
The fun-filled weekend will kick off with the Kevin Whitted All-Star Youth Basketball Camp on Friday, June 7th, at Kirby High School. Former NBA player and coach Kevin Whitted, along with his wife De’Neia, will lead the camp, which aims to teach the fundamentals of the game to young boys and girls, ages 7-17.
This year, the first 100 kids to register for the camp will attend for free, receiving a t-shirt, lunch, and an unforgettable experience. The first 50 students to register will also receive two tickets to the Celebrity Basketball Game on Saturday, June 8th, at Ridgeway High School.
But the highlight of the weekend is sure to be the Celebrity Basketball Game, featuring City of Memphis Mayor Paul Young and Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris. Former NBA coach Lionel Hollins and Coach Kevin Whitted will lead the teams, while Dustin Starr, owner of Memphis Wrestling, will serve as the emcee.
In addition to the mayors, other professional athletes, local and national celebrities, and former Memphis Grizzlies player Tony Allen will also be playing. Allen will be honored with the HTH inaugural Heroes of Change Award for his contributions to the community.
Founder and Executive Director of HTH, LaDell Beamon, is excited about the level of talent participating in this year’s game. “The game this year is on a different level! As far as I know, this is the first time two mayors in office have met on a Memphis basketball court. Add the Grindfather, Tony Allen, and two phenomenal coaches, and you’ve got a recipe for greatness.”
Tickets for the Celebrity Basketball Game are $20 and can be purchased online or at the door. All proceeds from both events will benefit HTH’s youth programs.
HTH is a nonprofit organization that provides positive outlets for youth and young adults through various forms of art and therapy. They are currently raising money to build a multi-million-dollar Hero Empowerment Center in East Memphis, which will serve as a safe haven for youth and their families.
For more information about the event or to register for the Kevin Whitted All-Star Youth Basketball Camp, visit www.hthmemphis.org or call 901-566-0473.
