A free basketball program that started in the mid-1950s is reaching out to the community for volunteers.
The Chester Presbyterian Basketball Association has provided opportunities for boys and girls from ages eight to 15 an to participate in organized sporting events. Challenges these children face range from financial challenges to mental and physical challenges.
Initially organized by the Colonial Heights Jaycees and later moved to the Chester Jaycees, the program continues by the Chester Presbyterian Church as an outreach ministry and is co-sponsored by Chesterfield County Parks & Recreation.
Many of the directors, coaches, and volunteers have been running the program for many years. Lee White was director of the program for over 30 years, and recently retired after many years of devotion to the program and the youth in our area. Other directors have been Francis
Clark, Lauren Perkins, and Glen and Mary Kemp.
Community members interested in volunteering need to provide support on Saturdays from late November through mid-March. Current volunteers are reaching retirement and the program is in jeopardy of folding unless new volunteers can be found. The association is looking for leaders who have a desire to continue the program.
Below is a list of certain positions to consider.
League Director: Responsible for the administration of the league. Coordinate scheduling and approval with Chester Presbyterian Church and Chesterfield County Parks and Rec. Obtain schools for each division. Oversee the administration of all divisions and provide all material for the league, (sign-up sheets, waivers, schedules, etc.). Coordinate and administer a draft for players to be assigned to teams.
Division Directors: All divisions need a director. The divisions are Junior Boys (ages 8-9), Intermediate Boys (ages 10 -12), Senior Boys (ages 13-15), and Junior and Senior Girls (ages 8-15). Each director will run the league and will coordinate practice and game schedules, coaches, referees, score keepers, and anyone necessary for a successful program.
Other volunteers are always needed, such as coaches, referees, and scorekeepers.
If you would like an opportunity to serve God and your community and help children who have many challenges in this world, consider a role in this very important program. The current administration will be training this season, and what is necessary for each of these positions, and will be available to help with future years. If you have questions, feel free to call Glen Kemp at (804)397-5257, or e-mail: [email protected].
