Hoops and Healing team at East Orange YMCA
East Orange, NJ

IT REALLY IS
BIGGER THAN
BASKETBALL.

Empowering students through athletic development and mental health awareness. Free program. Real community. Lasting impact.

Every Friday · 6:30 PM

East Orange YMCA — Turrell Gym

159 N Munn Ave, East Orange, NJ

Our Mission

THE COURT IS A
PLATFORM
FOR GROWTH.

At Hoops and Healing, we believe that the court is more than just a place to play basketball; it's a powerful platform for personal growth, resilience, and community. Our mission is to empower students through the dual focus of athletic development and mental health awareness.

We are committed to nurturing the whole student—athletically, mentally, and emotionally. Join us in creating a community where young athletes can thrive, not only as players but as confident, resilient individuals.

Our Full Story

Free Program

No cost to participate

All Skill Levels

Beginners to advanced

Mental Health

Integrated into every session

Community Service

Give back as you grow

What We Offer

OUR PROGRAMS

BASKETBALL TRAINING

Comprehensive basketball training programs that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. Our experienced coaches teach the fundamentals of the game while instilling essential life skills — teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.

  • Fundamentals & Skills Development
  • Teamwork & Game Strategy
  • Discipline & Perseverance
  • All Skill Levels Welcome

MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS

We integrate mental health and wellness education into every program. Physical health is closely linked to mental well-being. Our workshops help students develop coping strategies, build self-esteem, and foster positive relationships.

  • Coping Strategy Workshops
  • Self-Esteem Building
  • Mindfulness Techniques
  • Safe & Supportive Environment

JOIN US EVERY FRIDAY

Come as you are. Leave better than you arrived.

Time

6:30 PM

Location

East Orange YMCA

Turrell Gym · 159 N Munn Ave, East Orange, NJ 07017

Give Back

GIVE BACK.
GROW UP.
SHOW UP.

Our basketball program is designed not only to promote athletic skills and teamwork but also to instill a sense of responsibility and community involvement. We are pleased to offer this program at no cost — but we believe in the importance of giving back.

Each participant will be required to complete a certain number of community service hours. This allows our players to engage positively with their surroundings, learn valuable life skills, and appreciate the impact they can have on others.

Leadership Skills

Step up and lead in your community, not just on the court.

Character Strength

Build integrity and resilience through service to others.

Sense of Belonging

Become part of something larger than yourself.

Real-World Impact

See firsthand the difference you can make in East Orange.

Founder & CEO
"WE ARE COMMITTED TO NURTURING THE WHOLE STUDENT — ATHLETICALLY, MENTALLY, AND EMOTIONALLY."
EL

Elder Jerome Bishop Lane Jr.

Founder & CEO

MHFA / QPR Instructor

Community

THANK YOU TO OUR
PARTNERS!!!!

East Orange YMCA

Mental Health Association in New Jersey

Elmwood United Presbyterian Church

East Orange Fire Department

Benjamin Banneker Academy

KING Movement

EUPC Men of Faith

ItsTheZone.com

Wynona's House Child Advocacy Center

READY TO
LEVEL UP?

Join a community where young athletes thrive — on the court and in life. Free program. Real growth. Every Friday.

Join the Program — It's Free
Hoops and Healing

HOOPS & HEALING

It Really Is Bigger Than Basketball For Us!!!

Empowering students through athletic development and mental health awareness in East Orange, NJ.

Practice

Every Friday

6:30 PM

East Orange YMCA

Turrell Gym

159 N Munn Ave

East Orange, NJ 07017

Our Partners

  • East Orange YMCA
  • Mental Health Association in New Jersey
  • Elmwood United Presbyterian Church
  • East Orange Fire Department
  • Benjamin Banneker Academy
  • KING Movement
  • EUPC Men of Faith
  • ItsTheZone.com
  • Wynona's House Child Advocacy Center

© 2026 Hoops and Healing. All rights reserved.

Founded by Elder Jerome Bishop Lane Jr., MHFA/QPR Instructor