Hoop2Hope is a program for boys 8 – 20 years old in the Jane-Finch and surrounding community. It is structured around a basketball program however the main purpose is to guide them on their journey from boyhood to manhood. The goal is to nurture boys so that they become mature or manly men marked by these 3 R’s – Responsible, Respectful and Resolute. The volunteers in this program are older men who are further along in the journey with a wealth of experience and knowledge. Each youth is guided to grow in the following ways – physically, economically, academically, socially and spiritually. This is fostered through activities like:

• Weekly life skills teaching

• Character development

• Guest speakers/ SME’s on current and appropriate topics

• Field Trips

• Camping, retreats

• Cross cultural experiences

At the end of each calendar year there is a rite of passage ceremony to recognize those who have reached the 13 and 18 year old milestones. These ceremonies are memorable and significant celebrations to mark the transitioning from boyhood to manhood.