A Harlem Globetrotter Brings Message of Hope to Philadelphia Schoolkids
By Pat Loeb
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Students at an elementary school in the Harrowgate section of Philadelphia had a surprise visitor today with a special message.
Chris "Handles" Franklin travels the world playing basketball for the Harlem Globetrotters. It was his dream since he was six.
But, he says, his favorite part of the job is visiting schools, hoping his story will inspire young people.
"I try to teach kids that their dreams are attainable and they can do anything they put their minds to," the Harrisburg, Pa. native said today at Webster Elementary School.
He starts his presentation by showing one lucky volunteer how to do tricks with a basketball that he may have never thought possible, such as passing it behind his back and spinning it on his finger.
"It was fun, and I can't believe that actually happened to me today, so I'm very happy," said third-grader Damian Vivera after being chosen to help out.
With Philadelphia schools short of resources and struggling to meet student needs, vice principal Byron Golson said the visit from Franklin is a lift that helps show students that they matter.
"It gives them a validation that they can achieve, and I think that's so important for them," Golson tells KYW Newsradio.