Student Life
Athletics
YP Junior Raises Money for Ukrainian Refugees
Junior Harrison Geiling recently founded Hoopin4Hope, a fundraising campaign that supports displaced and injured Ukrainian teens. Harrison's passion for making a positive impact in the world was sparked by his volunteer work in Ukraine last year, where he witnessed the struggles of families fleeing the war, injured children, and frontline troops. Inspired to take action, Harrison created Hoopin4Hope. Hoopin4Hope's aim is to raise $3000 through high school basketball playoffs and State championships, which will be donated to Ukraine Friends, the nonprofit organization that Harrison worked with during his humanitarian mission. Through this initiative, Harrison and his team hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people affected by conflict, demonstrating how the game of basketball can be used to support global communities. In this Q and A, we learn more about Harrison's inspiring story and his vision for Hoopin4Hope.
What inspired you to go on the volunteer mission to Ukraine?
The idea came to my family and I when our temple sent out an email telling us that they are organizing a fundraiser for Ukrainian refugees to help fight against the Russia Ukraine war. Eventually we got in contact with an organization called Ukraine Friend, which sends families out to Ukraine with medical supplies for soldiers fighting in the war. My family and I felt like this was a once in a lifetime opportunity and felt that because we are fortunate to live in a safe country, why not share that fortune and help others in need.
When did you start Hoopin4Hope?
I actually started it recently. I had made the website earlier this year, but I decided to wait to launch it when the basketball season's playoffs began. This was an idea that I had come up with, as I realized that although I am not physically in Ukraine anymore, there are still ways to help and this is a perfect way to help. Since I am a sports fanatic, I thought to myself why not raise money for a cause I feel so connected to by playing sports.
How did you come up with the idea for 3 pointer donation?
This idea sparked because I wanted to find a way for not just me, but my team to make raising money more fun. For every 3 pointer my team makes, the more money we can raise. Having just one way to donate seemed basic to me, so I came up with the idea to use 3 pointers as a way to raise money. This would help motivate myself, and the team to make more shots as we know the more we hit the more people we are helping.
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Harrison Geiling on his volunteer mission in Ukraine
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