More Than a Game—It’s a Movement.

Operation Basketball empowers Chicago’s youth through sport, mentorship, and opportunity. From the court to the classroom to the community—we’re helping young people win in the game of life.

More than a Game

At Operation Basketball, we believe every young person deserves access to opportunity, healing, and community. Our programs meet them where they are—with a basketball in hand—and guide them toward where they could go. 

We run high-impact, culturally grounded initiatives like: 

Hoops TherapyJumpers & JobsUndiscovered Showcase, and Chicago Hoopfest.

Each program is a reflection of our core pillars: Health & Wellness, Mentorship, and Job Readiness.

Our programs

Hoops Therapy

Ages 18 - 21

Mental health meets the hardwood in a trauma-informed basketball league. 

A 12-week basketball league fused with group therapy. We create safe spaces for youth to express emotions, address trauma, and build trust—all while playing the game they love.

Jumpers & Jobs

Ages 6 - 15

Career coaching and employment prep for high school youth.

Before the summer starts, we prepare teens for the real world. From resume writing to mock interviews to internship placements, this program bridges the gap between potential and opportunity.

📝 85% of past participants secured summer jobs or internships.

Undiscovered Showcase

All Ages

A platform for overlooked student-athletes to earn scholarships and exposure.

Every spring, overlooked high school seniors get their shot. Coaches, recruiters, and scouts attend this invite-only showcase to offer scholarships and exposure to hidden talent.

Chicago Hoopfest

Ages 6 - 15

A vibrant citywide celebration of culture, sport, and unity.

Enjoy the citywide celebration of unity through basketball. Hoopfest brings together neighborhoods, food vendors, performers, and more to show what’s possible when Chicago comes together.

real change - real numbers

Since launching, Operation Basketball has grown from a grassroots effort to a citywide movement.

Based in South & West Side neighborhoods

2,000+ youth served

150+ hours of hoops therapy

5 major annual community events

70+ student-athletes recruits

350+ job connections through Jumpers & Jobs

You Can Help Us Win

Our growth has been powered by community champions like you—people who believe in youth potential and put action behind it.

Donate to fund therapists, job coaches, and safe event spaces.

Your donation directly impacts the lives of young people in Chicago.
Every dollar helps us:

Provide licensed therapists during Hoops Therapy sessions

Hire certified job readiness coaches for Jumpers & Jobs 

Rent and secure safe community spaces for our events and showcase

Supply meals, transportation, and essential gear to youth participants

$25 helps provide a meal and transport for one youth
$100 covers a therapy or job coaching session
$500 helps sponsor a full 12-week program slot for one teen

➡️ All donations are tax-deductible and go straight to program delivery.
[Make a Donation]

We believe in the power of collective effort.
That’s why we collaborate with schools, city agencies, nonprofits, and brands who want to make a real difference.

As a partner, you can:

  • Co-host or sponsor a community event like Hoopfest or Kobe Day

  • Provide internship or job opportunities to our Jumpers & Jobs graduates

  • Share resources or space for programs like Hoops Therapy

  • Fund a team, travel, or scholarships for the Undiscovered Showcase

Let’s build something that lasts.
[Become a Partner] | [View Partnership Deck]

Behind every powerful program is a network of committed volunteers.

Whether you’re an experienced coach, a licensed mental health professional, or just someone who wants to give back—there’s a role for you here.

You can:

  • Mentor teens during workshops or job readiness sessions

  • Coach or support youth at weekly basketball games

  • Help manage logistics for big events like Hoopfest or Showcase

  • Capture moments as a photographer, videographer, or social media volunteer

No basketball experience required—just heart.
[Sign Up to Volunteer]

You don’t need a big wallet to make a big difference.

Sharing our mission can:

  • Help a young person find a life-changing opportunity

  • Connect us with future funders, volunteers, or partners

  • Build awareness around youth mental health, violence prevention, and community unity

Follow us, repost our stories, or invite a friend to an event.
Your voice amplifies our reach. And we can all win in the game of life.

📱 Follow us:
[Instagram] | [Facebook] | [YouTube] | [TikTok]

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