Hillside Connection spearheaded its second annual GameLikeHer Basketball Camp on March 4th, drawing in seventy girls aged 6 to 14 to the basketball courts. Founded in 2017 by Terrell Brown, a former basketball player for Otero Junior College and Montana State University, Hillside Connection aims to utilize basketball as a means to provide opportunities for youth in Southeast Colorado Springs.
The 501(c)3 organization focuses on empowering youths, with GameLikeHer being an integral part of this mission. Brown emphasizes the camp’s emphasis on empowerment, incorporating skill-building basketball clinics alongside activities like vision board sessions, where girls envision their future aspirations.
Following the morning skills clinic, the participants engaged in a Women’s Empowerment Panel featuring business leaders and educators. The panel addressed various topics including self-confidence, communication skills, adversity, and pursuing dreams, offering valuable insights to the young attendees.
Panelists included esteemed individuals such as Dr. Regina Lewis, Natasha Hutson, Chef Chantal Lucas, Barbara Myrick, and Julie Ramirez, providing a diverse range of perspectives and experiences to inspire the girls.
The success of GameLikeHer has been notable, with participation increasing from 47 to 70 girls compared to the previous year. Brown emphasizes the importance of maintaining financial accessibility, offering scholarships and keeping the non-scholarship rate at an affordable $25 per child.
Hillside Connection operates primarily through grants, sponsorships, and donations, with nearly all income directed towards programming. Brown stresses the organization’s commitment to community impact over administrative costs, highlighting its volunteer-driven structure.
GameLikeHer is a collaborative effort between Brown and Keion Arkwright, leveraging their respective expertise to create positive change. Brown emphasizes the significance of their partnership, particularly in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within their programs.
Looking ahead, Hillside Connection remains dedicated to expanding its outreach efforts and providing quality sports opportunities for underserved youth. Brown’s personal connection to basketball and Southeast Colorado Springs drives his passion for using the sport as a vehicle for positive change.
For Brown, GameLikeHer is more than just a basketball camp – it’s a platform for empowering young girls and instilling confidence and resilience that will resonate far beyond the court.