Hits Of Hope

"For I know the plans I have for you,", declares the Lord
"plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Jeremiah 29:11

The United Nations estimates more than 5,700 children are orphaned each day because of HIV/AIDS.
It is estimated that over 15 million children have already lost one or both of their parents to this disease.
Of the 15 million children, 12 million live in sub-saharan Africa.

The story of Austin Gutwein...

In the spring of 2004, a nine year old boy from Arizona named Austin Gutwein watched a video that showed children who had lost their parents to AIDS. After watching the video, he realized these kids weren’t any different from him except they were suffering. Austin felt God calling him to do something to help them. He decided to shoot free throws and on World AIDS Day, 2004, he shot 2,057 free throws to represent the 2,057 kids who would be orphaned during his day at school. Friends and family sponsored Austin and he was able to raise almost $3,000. That year, the money was used by World Vision to provide hope to 8 orphan children.

From that year forward, thousands of people have joined Austin in a basketball shoot-a-thon called Hoops of Hope. By doing something as simple as shooting free throws, Hoops of Hope participants have raised over $1 million. The children left behind by AIDS now have access to food, clothing, shelter, a new school and finally, a medical testing facility which could save an entire generation. A second clinic is now under construction.

"Hoops of Hope" inspires "Hits of Hope"...

On July 31, 2010 the students of Community Christian School are joining Austin and Hoops of Hope in their efforts. Yet instead of shooting baskets we will be hitting wiffle balls. Together, we believe anyone, no matter what their age or skills, can make a difference.

Join us by participating or sponsoring a participant. It's an awesome event that will leave an impact not only on the lives of the kids we're helping, but on yours as well. Please help us provide “hope and a future” for these children….

All donations to this event will benefit Hoops of Hope, Community Christian School and the National Association of University Model Schools (NAUMS)

For more details please call 413-454-7423 or email chris@fenwaywestfield.com