A coalition of community groups in Ypsilanti has launched a free youth basketball program called Ballin’ Summer ’26, running from June 8 to August 13.
The schedule calls for five days a week, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., with each week rotating through the parks of Parkridge, Fireman’s, West Willow, Appleridge and Prospect.
Organizers say the program is about more than shooting hoops; it blends basketball skills with mentorship, leadership training and positive youth development.
Building Community Through Sport
Justin Harper, co‑founder and director of CLR Academy, is spearheading the effort, saying he wants to be a role model and help participants grow into positive influences in their own neighborhoods.
The coalition includes CLR Academy, Real Agape, The Corner Health Center, Ypsi Can I Share?, Supreme Felons and Washtenaw My Brother’s Keeper, each bringing expertise in health, outreach and community building.
Each session begins with a dialogue focused on social‑emotional skills and sportsmanship, then moves into basketball coaching and drills, followed by a full‑court game and a final circle‑up to reflect on the day.
Program leaders hope the initiative will become an annual fixture, creating a lasting impact that keeps kids active, engaged and away from trouble over the summer months.
Derrick Jackson, former director of community engagement at the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office, previously ran a similar program years ago, and his experience informs the current model.