At the end of July, Goodwill New Beginnings hosted its seventh annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament. This event is designed to connect law enforcement, the Department of Corrections and the local community through an afternoon of friendly competition, sportsmanship and fun.
“Building trust between the community and law enforcement is important for solving issues that affect both of us,” said Dr. Trelles Evans, senior director of coaching and reentry services at Goodwill. “Our program participants who play in the tournament benefit from making these connections.”
Goodwill New Beginnings offers resources to help individuals who were previously impacted by the criminal justice system. These resources include helping secure housing and health care, reinstating drivers’ licenses, addressing legal challenges and more. Through barrier removal, wrap-around support and case management, participants can work toward transitioning from entry-level work at Goodwill to a skilled, in-demand career at Goodwill or within their community.
By playing in the tournament, program participants can fulfill the positive social piece of the curriculum, which can reduce stigma around incarceration and support long-term healing, public safety and reintegration.
Goodwill New Beginnings also celebrated its summer cohort of graduates in July. To date, Goodwill New Beginnings has graduated over 300 participants from the program – many of whom return to participate in the tournament.
This year, nine teams competed for the tournament’s championship trophy. Eight thrilling games were played, alongside free food, music and a knockout tournament that involved the audience.
“It’s a feel-good event that’s been growing and growing,” said Dr. Trelles. “I’m excited to see where we’ll end up in the next few years.”
To learn more about Goodwill New Beginnings, visit goodwillindy.org/employment-services.