SIBSPlace, in partnership with Molloy University, hosted its 20th annual Hoops for Hope Basketball Fundraiser. SIBSPlace is a support program for children ages 5 to 17, sponsored by Mount Sinai South Nassau.
The program provides free support to children with siblings with cancer or another devastating medical diagnosis, a parent with a cancer diagnosis, or to children coping with the death of a sibling or parent. SIBSPlace, based in Rockville Centre, is an affiliate of Mount Sinai South Nassau based in Oceanside.
Hoops for Hope, which started as a high school fundraiser led by Bill Dubin, has expanded over the years to include various local schools.
The basketball tournament on Dec. 6 showcased local varsity teams from Bethapage, Oceanside, Malverne, East Rockaway, Valley Stream Central, Seaford, Sewanhaka and Hempstead. Participating in this year’s game was Valley Stream Central twin brothers and former SIBSPlace program participants, Jaiya and Julian Vera, now in 11th-grade. The Vera brothers had taken a leadership role in promoting the game and raising awareness for SIBSPlace.
The games were sponsored by the Peninsula Kiwanis Cllub, the original and longest continual sponsor of the event. Between games, the Peninsula Kiwanis presented a $2,000 check to SIBSPlace, further supporting the organization’s vital mission.
“The dedication of Coach Bill Dubin and our local Nassau County high schools over the years has been instrumental in advancing our mission through community events that raise both awareness and critical funding for families facing unimaginable challenges,” said Joanna Formont, executive Drirector of SIBSPlace said in a release. “The generosity and compassion these young athletes demonstrate will directly impact the lives of children and families we serve across Long Island, including some of their own peers and neighbors.”
Hoops for Hope is a cornerstone of fundraising for SIBSPlace, raising more than $15,000 annually for the nonprofit organization. Funds are generated through ticket sales and donations that support critical programs that provide mental health care to children and families throughout Nassau County.
“The gym was packed with energy, teamwork and heart as we came together to spread awareness and support SIBSPlace,” SIBSPlace wrote on Instagram. “A huge shoutout to Molloy University for their continued support of our mission. And a big thank you to the Peninsula Kiwanis and all of the high schools, coaches, and players who showed up with enthusiasm and gave it everything on the court. You made
