A Day of Healing on the Court
Chicago’s Hope Student Athletics Center buzzed with energy last week as the Angel Tree Sports Camp opened its doors to nearly 175 children whose families have been touched by incarceration.
The one‑day basketball clinic, organized by the national nonprofit Prison Fellowship, pairs athletic drills with mentorship sessions designed to foster healing and community connection.
Christopher Mallette, director of community engagement at Chicago Hope Academy, addressed the campers, urging them to view challenges as opportunities and to lean on the supportive network surrounding them.
Former NBA player Brandon Johnson, who spent time behind bars early in his career, shared his own journey of redemption, inspiring the youngsters to persevere despite adversity.
Nikki Mattison, an Angel Tree event planner, highlighted the power of collective support, noting that raising resilient families requires a village willing to step in and guide the next generation.
Organizers say the camp’s blend of sport, storytelling and mentorship aims to create lasting bonds that extend far beyond the court, offering a glimpse of hope for families navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system.