Hoops For Peace | 30

Community Kinship Coalition (CKC) recognized the significance of the 30th Annual Hoops for Peace event as a pivotal moment to further its mission of community empowerment and violence prevention in Prince George’s County. With the event marking three decades of community engagement and youth development, it was essential to maximize outreach, drive participation, and highlight the impact of this milestone. Choice Habit was brought in to help elevate the event’s visibility, expand community engagement, and ensure seamless execution.

Choice Habit partnered with CKC to develop and execute a multi-faceted strategy that would celebrate the legacy of Hoops for Peace while driving community involvement and broad media coverage. The strategy included:

         1.  Website Development:

• Enhanced CKC’s existing website to feature a dedicated section for Hoops for Peace 30, providing easy access to registration, event details, and donation opportunities.
• Integrated RSVP forms, event schedules, and volunteer sign-up links to streamline participant engagement.

          2. Social Media Campaigns:

• Developed a month-long social media rollout across platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, with SEO-optimized posts leading up to, during, and after the event.
• Highlighted speakers, community leaders, and activities through countdown posts, reels, and carousel features.
• Created custom hashtags like #HoopsForPeace30, #CKC30Years, and #EmpowerTheYouth to unify online discussions.

          3. Outreach Efforts:

• Direct outreach to local and regional media outlets, public officials, and community leaders to ensure a strong presence and participation.
• Secured high-profile guests, including special guest speaker Dr. BJ Paige, and coordinated with local schools, youth organizations, and faith-based groups to boost attendance.

          4.  Media Kits:

• Designed professional media kits for press and sponsors, including event schedules, key speaker bios, and press releases.
• Provided photo opportunities, live interview scheduling, and key talking points to media outlets.

         5.  Event Logistics:

• Managed on-site coordination, including vendor setup, speaker schedules, stage management, and volunteer oversight.
• Facilitated activities such as the 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament (ages 8-18), community workshops, and the youth leadership summit.
• Organized a live stream of the event, providing wider access for community members unable to attend in person.

The 30th Annual Hoops for Peace was a resounding success, achieving significant community impact and establishing a strong foundation for future CKC events. Key achievements included:

• High Engagement:
  • Over 500 attendees from across Prince George’s County, Washington D.C., Baltimore, and neighboring communities.
  • Participation from over 30 local organizations and 50 volunteers, with youth engagement at an all-time high.
• Media Coverage:
  • Featured on major outlets including WUSA9, DC News Now, and coverage by Craig Black of WPGC.
  • Widespread social media engagement, with a 75% increase in Instagram followers during the campaign.
• Community Impact:
  • Provided a safe, positive space for youth to engage in sports, leadership workshops, and community-building activities.
  • Distributed over 100 backpacks and school supplies, along with Nike swag bags sponsored by the Kevin Durant Foundation.
• Strengthened Partnerships:
  • Built new connections with local businesses, government officials, and community organizations, setting the stage for future collaborations.
  • Engaged Maryland Governor’s Office, laying the groundwork for gubernatorial involvement in future CKC events.
• Legacy Celebration:
  • Highlighted CKC’s 30-year history of community service and violence prevention, reinforcing its role as a vital community pillar.

The 30th Annual Hoops for Peace wasn’t just a celebration of CKC’s past achievements—it was a blueprint for its future. Through Choice Habit’s strategic planning and targeted outreach, the event successfully amplified CKC’s mission, strengthened community ties, and inspired a new generation of leaders. The success of this milestone event ensures that Hoops for Peace will continue to be a beacon of hope and unity for decades to come.