On June 26, Booker T. Washington High School will host the Crosstown Classic, a charity basketball game that gathers 22 rising senior athletes from both public and private schools throughout Tulsa. The event is organized to benefit Crosstown, a nonprofit that has served the Kendall Whittier neighborhood since 1969 by providing affordable early childhood education.
Crosstown’s executive director, Kristina Ellis, notes that tuition payments cover only about 60 percent of the program’s operating costs, making fundraising essential to sustain and expand services. The organization’s goal for this year’s event is to raise $150,000 in tuition assistance scholarships, ensuring that more families can access quality early education.
Players Find Purpose on the Court
Before the game, several athletes spent time with the children served by Crosstown, gaining a deeper appreciation for the cause they are supporting. Riverfield Country Day guard Scott Thompson described the experience as giving the competition "a deeper meaning," while Metro Christian point guard Cade Dinsmore said it felt "good playing for a greater cause."
Leadership Rooted in Personal History
Kristina Ellis, who attended Crosstown as a child, now leads the organization and emphasizes that quality early childhood education is foundational to a child’s future development. Her personal connection to the nonprofit informs the strategic vision that blends community outreach with financial sustainability.
Community Ripple Effects
The event will feature raffle prizes, including a basketball shootout with a $1,000 grand prize, adding excitement for spectators while further boosting the fundraising target. Every dollar raised will be directed toward scholarships, helping Crosstown families afford the program and reinforcing the nonprofit’s mission to make early education accessible to all.