Targeting Youth Homelessness with Neon Dodge Balls
Written By Nicole Cross, Photography courtesy of Noemi Torres

LOS ANGELES - Sneakers squeaked across the STAPLES Center floor as players showed that ducking, diving, and dodging are among the many ways to stand up. On March 22, the First Annual Los Angeles Clippers Charity Dodgeball Tournament elicited the support of over 250 participants.

Before the competition began, STANDUP FOR KIDS Founder Rick Koca provided a humbling reminder of the purpose of the cause. Across the United States, one child runs away from home every 60 seconds. Proceeds from the fundraiser, totaling over $5000, will contribute to ongoing efforts to build a Youth Outreach Center in Orange County.

Spirit was high as members got creative with their uniforms, incorporating ‘90s style neon shorts, face paint, and one unforgettable spandex suit. The owner of the blue and white stripped spandex was none other than Orange County’s own SUFK director, Dijon Turner.

Despite the incredible efforts of each team, only one could walk away with the trophy. The 18 teams that began the tournament eventually boiled down to two: Happy Ending and Who’s Your Daddy. Only minutes after the final game began, Happy Ending emerged victorious and claimed the title of “Dodgeball Champions.” Awards were also presented to the Schwindlers for “Best Dressed” and Jackpotluck for “Most Popular Team.”

Competition was not all that spectators’ enjoyed at the event. As players battled out on the Clippers’ court, STAR 98.7 kept speakers blaring with upbeat tunes. Comedian K-Von excited the crowd with his witty commentary of the ongoing games and the tournament was followed by four musical performances. Destinee, League of Xtraordinary Ladies, West Side Story, and Yo Yo shared their talents and enthusiasm, all in the name of a good cause.

Steven Hwang, 17-year-old SUFK volunteer, has been in charge of the tournament for the past three years. The first two tournaments were held in the gym at his high school, Oxford Academy. After devoting countless hours to its preparation, he was proud to reflect on the success of this year’s event.

Hwang said, “Although the initial goal was to maximize financial profits, the overwhelming support helped put things in perspective. In the process of paving the way for the construction of the kids' Youth Outreach Center, the Dodgeball Tournament touched a wide array of lives. This was an event that included middle school, high school, college students and city members. It provided a time to level the playing field among people of all different circumstances, and promote awareness of the youth homelessness epidemic."

See it here http://rendertainment.com/Stand_Up_For_Kids.mov.

The Search is on. Volunteers NEEDED!
STANDUP FOR KIDS is an all volunteer program, so for us to be there for our homeless kids, we need your help! If you or someone you know is interested in getting involved e-mail us:

OrangeCounty@standupforkids.org