Every Sunday afternoon, the basketball court at Eastbrook Apartments in Watertown, New York, comes alive with the sound of sneakers and laughter as a group of kids and teens gather for a community‑run camp.
A Vision Born from Loss
Coach Andres Rivera launched the program after a tragic incident that claimed the life of a two‑year‑old at the complex in June, a loss that spurred him to create a space where safety, consistency and recreation could intersect for the neighborhood’s youth.
Assisted by assistant coach Damarion Dunn, who describes Rivera as a brother and mentor, the camp not only teaches fundamentals of the game but also fosters positive interactions among participants, reshaping how young people engage with one another.
Looking Ahead
With the school year approaching, Rivera is organizing an end‑of‑summer pizza party for August 30, seeking community donations to fund the celebration and ensure the camp can continue its vital work.
He also plans to meet with the Watertown Housing Authority to discuss opening the building’s recreation room after school, a step that could provide a year‑round venue for the growing number of participants.
Local residents and businesses have begun to answer Rivera’s call for donations, signaling a collective desire to sustain a program that has become a cornerstone of safety and camaraderie for the area’s children.