More than 400 people came out Sunday, June 19, for the second annual Chai Lifeline Hoops event which kicked off the Camp Simcha Without Borders Summer Season.
Launched in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Camp Simcha Without Borders was developed to bring the magic of Simcha to children and communities across the country. Camp Simcha Without Borders operates day camps and hosts special events in cities across the United States and across the globe, providing children with life-threatening or lifelong illnesses the opportunity to experience Simcha in their own hometowns.
The sold-out community basketball event featured an action-packed game between community rabbis, community leaders, and all-star players. The event, held at YULA High School’s Nagel Campus Samson Gym, included players representing 10 different local schools and shuls. Camp Simcha Without Borders counselors brought the crowd to their feet with cheers and dancing while distributing swag and running contests with big prizes throughout the event.
The crowd went wild when 13-year-old Will Buchman hit a shot from half-court for a $500 prize and, without hesitation, donated the money back to Chai Lifeline.
“It was incredible to see the many segments of the community coming together for such an important cause,” said Randi Grossman, director of Chai Lifeline West Coast. “There was such joy and unity in the gym all focused on supporting Chai Lifelines children and families.”
“We are so happy to bring Camp Simcha Without Borders back to LA this summer with a jam-packed, fun-filled schedule where these kids can just be kids,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, Chai Lifeline’s CEO. “Events like these give the community a look into the magic of Camp Simcha and the world of Chai Lifeline and how they too can support these warrior children and their families during challenging times.”
Camp Simcha Without Borders will host is boys’ session June 20-23 and girls’ session on August 8-11. To learn more about Chai Lifeline, visit www.chailifeline.org.
