Heal the Hood Foundation of Memphis representatives said they were elated to have Terrence Howard, Mira Howard and Jon Sklaroff at its annual Hoops for the Holidays Basketball game, which raises funds for the 12 Days of Christmas to provide families with gifts for the holidays.
Howard made numerous stops in Memphis last week and weekend as his latest movie, “Showdown at the Grand” had its world premiere in Memphis.
The Howards and Sklaroff, who has an acting role in “Showdown at the Grand,” were presented The Hero plaque from Heal the Hood for ministering to the youth. The Hoops for the Holidays event (November 11) was held at Hickory Ridge Middle School.
“Those awards that we give are pieces out of our hearts and gratitude,” Miriam Graham of Heal the Hood said. “It’s like a badge of honor for those who dare to help us (at the) Heal the Hood Foundation of Memphis.
Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris presented Terrence Howard with a Key to the County.
Memphis and Shelby County Film Commissioner Linn Sitler said Howard learned about the Heal the Hood Foundation from her and the group’s CEO, LaDell Beamon.
“He (Howard) wanted to see what Heal the Hood was about first hand,” said Sitler. “So he cancelled some appointments on his itinerary in order to support Heal the Hood and go to the basketball game … which was a fundraiser….
“He thinks the world of LaDell Beamon and of his work and helping children. Terrence got up himself to speak at halftime and gave the children advice and encouragement to live by. It was very touching and inspiring.”