When 400 pairs of sneakers to be given away to children in the NW Goldberg community were stolen from a warehouse, the story could have ended with devastation and disappointment.
Instead, individuals and business entities rallied behind the organization, replacing what was stolen and ensuring that HOOPFEST went off without a hitch.
“The theft was heartbreaking, that someone would do that and take from children in need,” says Nedra Hall, 33, a homeowner in the neighborhood. “I could see how someone could be discouraged.”
She added, “But it was so inspiring to see some many people show up to help.”
For 4 years, HOOPFEST has been the signature event for NW Goldberg Cares. Featuring free hair braiding and haircuts, basketball competitions, musical performances, and the highlight… a free shoe giveaway.
This year, July 17-19, HOOPFEST went on to be one of the most successful yet. Daniel Washington, Founder and Executive Director of NW Goldberg Cares says that he ended the successful 3-day weekend feeling “amazing.” He said that he is “super grateful” for the many individuals and organizations like StockX, Michigan State University, Kicks for All, and USA Basketball who stepped up to help.
“Kids were able to eat until their hearts were content, play eat ice cream and even enjoy a Michael Jackson impersonator who had the crowd rocking,” says Washington. While the event was a success, he did also find a lesson in the theft.
“I learned mostly that we can’t store that type of inventory in that location,” he explains that even in ongoing conversations with Detroit Police who are investigating the theft that there had never been a prior incident. “You assume that people would understand not to take things that aren’t theirs.”
Washington added that the extensive press coverage of the theft has been a lesson for the children of his community, many of whom were interviewed or questioned about the incident. “I think it’s important that we allow this to instill in them that you don’t take things that don’t belong to you and that your actions can have a lasting and cascading effect.”
Just one day after HOOPFEST, Washington was still on the move. He was escorting his youth campers to the Cranbrook Institute to watch and learn some basic tennis moves. He also shared that he is already focused on next year’s event.
“We want to ensure that it gets bigger and better every year,” he says, “that may not mean more shoes given away, but maybe more events, more activations, and attractions.”
One of the most popular attractions this year was the free hair grooming, cuts for little boys and braids for girls. Takara Cook braided hair all day on Sunday and she was uplifted to see the smiles on the faces of the little girls who would get out of her chair. “It really took me back to my childhood,” she added, “they were beautified because they were already beautiful.”
Nedra Hall, a resident, volunteered all weekend. She helped with the shoe distribution and keeping the park clean, she added that the event was also great for networking. “There were a lot of people who were intrigued and came to visit the neighborhood looking to possibly buy in the area.” She explained that her interest in the community’s work and development convinced her to buy her home there just over a year ago. She said that the event and the work of NW Goldberg Cares fit her personal core values. “We pull up when when we show up.”
