SLIDESHOW: Framingham Celebrates Hoops and Homework Program and Its Founder

Jack Abby’s Beer Hall hosted its first private fundraiser to celebrate the 3rd Anniversary of Hoops & Homework and its founder Herb Chasan.

It was a full house at Jack’s Abby Brewing’s new location on Clinton Street and a who’s who of Framingham in attendance. The $50 ticketed event was to raise money for the program started by Chasan.

Three years ago, Chasan encouraged his fellow Town Meeting members to approve an after-school program to help at-risk students in Framingham. His visionary program opened in mid-2013.

Today, Hoops & Homework operates programs in the Beaver Street and Waverly Street neighborhoods.

It provides academically enriching activities for children, helping to close the opportunity gap between higher-income and lower-income families, said Chasan, who attended the event last night with his wife Joan.

The program offers nutritious snacks, after-school tutoring, a place for kids to play in a safe environment and enrichment programs.

The program serves more than 50 kids in grades K-8, after-school and during the summer.

Funds 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 was recently recognized for his efforts by the Massachusetts Association of School Committees, for his work with at-risk kids.

In September, Framingham Youth Football and Cheerleading, presented Chasan with its Heroes Among Us Award.

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