Fri Sep 13 13:15:56 UTC 2024: ## Milwaukee Community Event Uses Basketball to Tackle Violence
**MILWAUKEE** – Evolve Community is hosting its first-ever “Stop the Violence: 3v3 Basketball Tournament” this Saturday, aiming to bring the community together and provide a positive outlet for youth.
“We know a basketball tournament won’t stop violence, but it can spark energy and enthusiasm for the cause,” said Charmon Pittman, Director of Evolve Community. “Basketball is a tool the youth love, and we want to use it to encourage positivity and get them thinking differently.”
The tournament, taking place at Messmer High School from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., will feature six teams in each age group competing for gold, silver medals, and a $1,000 scholarship.
The event is more than just basketball, however. Evolve Community will also host 20 vendors offering community resources, including representatives from local colleges, banks, and mental health organizations.
Pittman explained the tournament evolved from Evolve Community’s mission to address the holistic needs of the community. “We’ve been serving the homeless, supporting mental health, and volunteering at local food pantries,” he said. “We saw a need for a fun, engaging event that also promotes positive messaging.”
“We want to point our youth in a better direction, give them a chance to express themselves, win prizes, and come together around a common cause,” Pittman added.
Admission to the tournament is free. For more information, visit [link to website].
First Piper 