Every Father's Day weekend, the Armijo Recreational Center in El Paso’s Segundo Barrio transforms into a vibrant hub where children aged six to ten gather for Basketball in the Barrio, a program that has endured for 34 years.
More Than a Game
Founded by Rus Bradburd and Stevie Yellen, the camp was conceived as a vehicle for teaching leadership, literacy, and basketball skills while celebrating the border culture that defines the community.
Participants receive a t‑shirt, a basketball, a harmonica, bilingual books, a chess set, and a free lunch, all for the modest sum of one dollar, making the experience accessible to families in one of the poorest neighborhoods in the United States.
Learning on the Court
Beyond dribbling drills, the schedule weaves in music workshops, storytelling sessions, and safety lessons, ensuring that each child walks away with more than just athletic prowess.
The program’s reputation has attracted high‑profile visitors, including former U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and Olympic medalist John Carlos, who have both taken part in the camp’s activities.
A Community Embrace
Segundo Barrio, though marked by economic hardship, pulses with a strong sense of solidarity; the camp’s presence reinforces that spirit, drawing families from across El Paso and even from neighboring Chamizal.
Organizers have made concerted efforts to increase female participation, and the camp now includes roughly one‑third girls, reflecting a deliberate push toward gender inclusivity.
As Rus Bradburd ages, he envisions a future where the leadership of the program transitions to a new generation of community stewards, ensuring that the blend of sport, education, and cultural celebration endures.