Framingham Youth Football Honors Herb Chasan

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Framingham Youth Football & Cheer (FYFC) awarded its its first Heroes Among Us award of the 2015 season to the founder of the Hoops and Homework program on Sunday morning at the football field on the campus of Framingham State University.

Herb Chasan was honored during a ceremony between the sixth and seventh grade football games against Norwood on Sunday, Sept. 20.

The Heroes Among Us award is bestowed upon an individual who through their unique commitment and humanitarian spirit have made a lasting contribution to Framingham, explained FYFC President Chris Connolly.

Chasan, a Town Meeting member, created the Hoops & Homework program. He then advocated for funding of the free afterschool program at Town Meeting, and continues to seek donations for the program. Hoops & Homework is funded by donations and grant money, now.

The programs opened in mid-2013 and operate today at the Beaver Street and Waverly Street neighborhoods.

“We serve 60 of the most disadvantaged and underprivileged kids in town,” said Chasan.

On November 7, the program will host a fundraiser at the new Jack’s Abby restaurant at 100 Clinton Street at 7 p.m. Tickets are $50 and are still available. Fund raised will help to support the eight paid staffers at the two Hoops & Homework sites.

“Families do not pay for our program,” said Chasan. ”There are no transportation costs either, as kids walk to the center.”

Chasan said the Hoops & Homework program is open on no school days, as well as early release days.

He said the program is seeking donations of educational games, arts supplies, and sports equipment.

Sports equipment needed include, bikes, scooters, pedometers, basketballs, soccer balls, footballs, jump ropes, volleyballs and a volleyball net, softballs, baseball and softball gloves.

“We try to keep the kids busy and active,” said Chasan.

To donate items or to purchase tickets to the fundraiser, call Chasan at 508-380-1196.

Later this year, the Massachusetts Association of School Committees will honor Chasan for his efforts on behalf of Framingham students.

In 2011, Framingham Patch awarded Chasan with the Man Who Made A Difference Award.