Neighborhood Basketball Clinic Raises Money for Blessings in a Backpack

The third annual neighborhood Basketball Clinic at Daylily Park in Rochester Hills last month raised $1,100 for Blessings in a Backpack.

More than 100 people attended the popular picnic and basketball clinic (read more about it ).

Several businesses and community members helped make the day possible, including: the Wildflower Subdivision Board (for the refreshments, chips, bounce house, and the picnic grounds for the event); coaches John Pleasant, Klint Pleasant, Garth Pleasant, Nick Klak, Sean Peterson, and Stephan; Hamlin Pub (all food items including the hot dogs, chips, plates, napkins, and condiments); and Rochester Rental. 

"Thank you for all of your contributions," said organizer Jeff Lauth. "The funds generated will all be put to use by filling the nutritional needs of children anonymously in our district.  These contributions can literally have a positive impact throughout the year scholastically since these kids will have something in their stomach to get through the day."

Garth Pleasant, the retired longtime Rochester College coach, offered the kids and parents life lessons in addition to the basketball. 

"He talked about how quickly time flies and that the most important thing you can do for your child is to let them know how much you enjoy watching them play," Lauth said. "His talks never get old and in my opinion they serve as a gentle reminder of what is most important." 

For more about Blessings in a Backpack, visit www.blessingsinabackpack.com.