A Charleston‑area nonprofit called Rise Up recently transformed a local gym into a community hub by staging a basketball clinic at Charleston Southern University. The event gathered dozens of children for a day of play, nourishment, and conversation.
The decision to move the clinic from its usual Summerville gym to the university’s Division I court was intentional. The larger venue allowed the organizers to accommodate more families while showcasing the campus facilities.
Sport Meets Spirit
Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams of Charleston Southern University took part, running drills, offering mentorship, and creating a lively atmosphere for the young participants. Free meals were served, and informal talks about faith and life were woven into the schedule.
Pastor Josh Cutler, who also coaches a nearby high school, emphasized the event’s deeper purpose. He said the clinic was a chance to let children feel loved and part of a supportive network, even when life presents challenges.
Rise Up’s broader mission is to remind young people that hope persists. By combining sport, nourishment, and spiritual conversation, the nonprofit aims to build resilience and foster a sense of belonging among the region’s youth.