Good 4 You: Overtown Youth Center Kids Get Help From Zo
OVERTOWN (CBS4) - A former basketball player is doing more good off the court, this time for students who need to keep busy during summer break.
Former Miami Heat star Alonzo Mourning is always in the news for giving back to south Florida, but CBS4's Jorge Estevez got to sit down with Zo ahead of his famous Summer Groove to see people that directly benefit from his good deeds.
Among those affected are a group of kids who have just begun prepping for a chanting competition. They spend hours rehearsing inside the Overtown Youth Center. These are just one of the many activities at the center.
Behind this magic is Alonzo Mourning.
"A lot of times when kids don't have the direction many of them fall victim to the streets," said Mourning to CBS4's Jorge Estevez.
Mourning says the reason for the summer programs is to continue the attention they get in the classroom during the school year.
"They are surrounded by love. They are surrounded by hope and encouragement. They are surrounded by people who care about their well being," said Mourning.
DeBorah Breedlove, who started in the program in 9th grade, is now giving back to those who helped her. Before heading to college, she is helping mentor other kids.
"They not only help us with academics and school, they help us with personal life as well, so basically, we are all family here," said Breedlove.
Brittany Jean also needed a family. She remembers sitting in the same chairs as the kids sit in now. Jean also works as a mentor at the center.
"Three or four years ago, my brothers was shot and killed and the center played a big part as being supportive when I am here it is like a second role and second family," said Brittany Jean.
It is that togetherness that will not only help them win the upcoming chanting competition, but hopefully keep them strong for what life throws their way.
"There are so many things outside of the classroom that kids are facing that need to be addressed in order for them to have the confidence and self esteem enough for them to walk in the door and feel productive," said Mourning.
If you would like to help those children, you can attend one of the many event surrounding Zo's Summer Groove. The event begins on July 22nd, click here for more information.
