What began as a vision from an Ayden non-profit, has now transformed into a model of collaboration to combat community conditions.
 
Receiving Breakthrough Funding through United Way of Pitt County, and partnering with Ayden Police Department, Town of Ayden and Parks/Recreation Department, and Pitt Community College, the Midnight Basketball League, through Anointed Ones Ministry, has championed the cause to assist underserved youth and young adults with self-development as they participate in league sports.
 
Offering structured, tournament-style game play, MBL’s primary goal is to keep youth off the streets of Ayden during peak crime hours.
 
“Building relationships with the players who actually respect the program, provide peace of mind for the parents and families as they are equally as impacted,” said Margaret Reid, program coordinator.
 
“When you give them options, provide alternatives to being on the street, the participants can take ownership of their accomplishments and see their community supporting them,” said Reid.
 
However, the program is not just for the love of the game.
 
Attending to both the recreational and societal needs of participants, players are mandated to attend before-game workshops—“No workshop, no jumpshot” being their motto-- that seek to educate and stimulate positive interaction, as well as incorporating character building, employment skill development and empowerment lectures from local leaders.
 
Participants from ages 13-17 and 18-28 are also case managed by staff that identify problems, provide counseling, and ensure participants are on track to fulfilling the player’s personal self-improvement contracts.
 
“It’s amazing to see the people known to society as having issues, coming to the workshops and taking responsibility for themselves,” said Broderick Best, the program’s athletic director.
 
For the younger players still in high school, community volunteers provide personal mentoring and tutoring to guarantee academic success.
 
Players who are older that do not have a high school diploma are required to work towards completing a GED, partnering with Pitt Community College that provides classes on site.
 
“Giving them something structured, to not only participate in, but work towards instills a sense of hope in the players,” said Best.
 
The Ayden Police Department provides two police officers on duty through a grant, and the town’s Park and Recreation Department allows the League to utilize the gym as a safe environment.
 
“We are proud to be a part of this program,” said Ayden Chief of Police Tim Moseley. “It is a great way for us to partner with Anointed Ones and do something positive for our community. I expect the Midnight Basketball Program will continue to be a great success.” 
 
The Midnight Basketball Program in Ayden is apart of the National Midnight Basketball Association that has received national recognition for its cause. The Ayden location is the pilot program for the area, with hopes of expanding to Greenville in the future.
 
For more information on United Way of Pitt County’s Breakthrough Funding recipients, visit their website at www.uwpcnc.org or call 252-758-1604.
 
 
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