In June, Goodwill hosted its eighth annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament, bringing together the community and law enforcement for a day of friendly competition and sportsmanship.
With eight teams of three participating, the tournament was jam-packed with thrilling gameplay. Community members who came to watch could enjoy free food, music, and entertainment, including a mid-tournament performance and a game of knockout.
“Seeing everyone come out and enjoy themselves is always rewarding,” said David Hollomon, director of Goodwill New Beginnings. “We’ve had the same team win the tournament trophy for the past three years, so it’s exciting to see who’ll try to take them off the throne.”
Beyond entertainment, the event plays an important role for both players and the audience.
“The tournament allows the community and law enforcement to work together and get better acquainted with each other,” said Dr. Evans, senior director of coaching and reentry services . “It’s an invaluable connection that helps further the goals of both parties.”
The tournament is intentionally designed by Goodwill New Beginnings to build trust among members of the community who may not understand each other’s goals. Alongside community-building, the tournament fulfills the positive social piece of Goodwill New Beginnings participants and graduates, reducing stigma around incarceration and supporting long-term healing, public safety and reintegration – a central goal of the program.
Goodwill New Beginnings supports those who have been previously impacted by the criminal justice system, offering resources to help secure employment, housing, health care and more. Participants in the program can receive assistance with addressing legal challenges, building positive support systems and even work toward bettering their mental health.
Earlier this year, Goodwill New Beginnings celebrated 21 participants who graduated from the program. Since 2011, Goodwill New Beginnings has helped 1016 participants reenter their communities, confident and prepared.
To learn more about Goodwill New Beginnings, visit goodwillindy.org/employment-services.
