Hoops of Hope - FAQ/Info

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Hoops of Hope?

Hoops of Hope is an annual basketball shoot-a-thon, now with 3 national event dates. Its goal is to raise awareness and funds for children who have been orphaned by HIV/AIDS. Money raised through our free throw marathons goes directly to World Vision’s Hope Initiative which targets care for orphan children in highly affected areas. In 2007, participants raised over $198,000 for a medical lab in Sinazongwe, Zambia, an area hit hard by HIV/AIDS. Participants from all over the country, will shoot thousands of free throws throughout 2008. These free throws represent the thousands of kids orphaned each day and will raise money to help alleviate their suffering.

What do I need to do?

Sign up to shoot, invite your family and friends to join the cause by shooting baskets with you or by sponsoring you with donations, and then show up to shoot your free throws.

How can I sign up?

You can sign up by clicking the GET INVOLVED tab. Or, you can sign up by emailing participate@hoopsofhope.org.

When is the event?

Hoops of Hope events will be held around the world this year on 3 national Hoops of Hope event dates: March 15, May 17 and December 6. If these dates don't work with your schedule, feel free to choose a date that works best for you.

What date should I choose?

Most participants sign up to shoot December 6 in honor of World AIDS Day. However, if this date doesn't work for you or your group, you may arrange to shoot your free throws on a different day. Choose one of our national dates listed above, or a date that works best for you.

Where is the event held?

There will be Hoops of Hope locations throughout the United States and Europe. Click on the Events tab to find a location near you. If there is not a location listed for your area, please consider hosting an event for us. We will provide you with all the necessary tools and information.

Is this event just for kids?

No. If you think you can shoot 1000 free throws, bring it on! There is no age requirement. Last year, we had participants from age 4 - 65 years of age.

How many free throws do I need to shoot?

That’s up to you. You can sign up for one of the following levels and no, you don’t need to make them all:
Entry Challenge = 500 free throws
Individual Challenge = 1000 free throws
Ultimate Challenge = 2057 free throws (One for each child orphaned during a school day)
Team Challenge = 6000 free throws (One for each child orphaned during an entire day)

What if I’m not a basketball player?

No problem at all. This is a fun event and you will definitely have a good time for a great cause. All you need is a desire to make a difference for someone else.

Do I need to register?

Yes, we need to have you register so we can know how many gyms need to be reserved.

How much money do I need to raise?

We are asking each participant to target a fundraising goal of $250. Most people are able to raise $100 without much effort and many are able to raise a lot more than $250. Challenge yourself and give it your best.

How do I raise the money?

It’s really quite easy. Go to www.firstgiving.com/hoopsofhope2008 to set up your own webpage. You can then send the link out friends and family. They can donate right online or they can send a check to World Vision on your behalf. In addition (or if you don't wish to create a fundraising page) you can download a sponsor form by clicking the GET INVOLVED tab. Just click on Host Info and then click Sponsor Form.

Where does all the money go?

Money raised through our free throw marathons goes directly to World Vision’s Hope Initiative to care for orphan children. For read about past and current projects, please click the project tab.

How did Hoops of Hope get started?

Hoops of Hope was started in 2004 by a 10 year old who just wanted to make a difference by doing what he loved, shooting hoops. Now in it’s 5th year, we’re looking for YOU along with another 10,000 participants to join the event.

Why World Vision?

World Vision has been working consistently for over 50 years without compromising their mission to share the love of Christ by providing care for vulnerable children and families. They are held to the highest level of accounting standards and are a member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability. World Vision has received the highest rating from Charity Navigator, an independent oversight group. For more information, please log onto www.worldvision.org.

Who is Firstgiving.com?

Firstgiving.com allows participants to create an online fundraising page. Each fundraising page can be personalized and then emailed to friends and family. Donations are then collected online through the fundraising page's secure server and sent automatically to World Vision. Firstgiving.com is a part of the BBB Online Reliability Program and meets all membership standards. Feel free to visit their website at www.firstgiving.com.