When the basketball court at Playground Ninety in Jackson Heights looked more like an abandoned lot than a place for pickup games, a group of seniors at Voyages Preparatory High School saw an opportunity.
Under the guidance of an elective class that partners with the project‑based career education program Hire Cause, the students launched a fundraising campaign that combined bake sales, a carnival and a tournament, ultimately raising $2,100.
Their effort caught the attention of the global competition Every Court Has a Story, where their video submission earned a $50,000 renovation grant, allowing the nonprofit Project Backboard to step in alongside NYC Parks.
The redesign brought together local artists and community partners, resulting in a large‑scale mural that reflects the cultural mosaic of the neighborhood, while the court itself was rebuilt with new surfacing, hoops and lighting.
Community Impact and Future Plans
Beyond the physical upgrade, the project gave participants hands‑on experience in leadership, collaboration, communication, project management and civic engagement — skills that school officials say are essential for students who have taken non‑traditional paths to graduation.
David Dvorkin, Founder and CEO of Hire Cause, emphasized that tackling real challenges that matter to young people builds confidence and career‑ready abilities.
The renovated space now serves as a gathering point for residents, offering a safe venue for sports and cultural events, and the school hopes to replicate the model in other underused public areas across Queens.