CareSource Basketball FunFest brings joy to children in Kansas City

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (CARESOURCE) - CareSource teamed up with basketball players from the University of Kansas to surprise children at the YMCA of Greater Kansas City's after school program at Nieman Elementary School.

The CareSource Basketball Funfest took place on March 6, 2024, at Nieman Elementary School Gym in Shawnee, Kansas. The event was an afternoon filled with basketball skills, drills and fun.

Four starters from the University of Kansas men's basketball team: KJ Adams Jr., Hunter Dickinson, Dajuan Harris Jr. and Kevin McCullar Jr. were joined by Chad Moore, CareSource's market president in Kansas to surprise the children.

Kevin McCullar Jr., Dajuan Harris Jr., KJ Adams Jr., Hunter Dickinson taught the children valuable skills and techniques while fostering a sense of teamwork and camaraderie. (Photo: CareSource)

Children enrolled in the YMCA’s afterschool program from Nieman Elementary, Crestview Elementary and Comanche Elementary participated in the event. These schools, known for serving communities with high levels of economic need, were selected to ensure that children from underserved communities had the opportunity to participate in this special event.

The atmosphere in the gymnasium was electric as the children eagerly awaited the arrival of the Kansas basketball stars. As the players stepped onto the court, they were met with cheers and applause from the excited crowd. Throughout the afternoon, the players led the children through a series of basketball drills, teaching them valuable skills and techniques while fostering a sense of teamwork and camaraderie. “It’s great to give back to the community,” said Harris. “They show us so much support, we’re just giving back and having fun with there kids.”

For many of the children in attendance, this event served as a memorable and uplifting experience, offering them a chance to interact with role models and develop a passion for sports. As they dribbled, passed and shot baskets alongside their heroes, the children forged unforgettable memories that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Children enrolled in the YMCA’s afterschool program from Nieman Elementary, Crestview Elementary and Comanche Elementary participated in the CareSource Basketball Funfest. (Photo: CareSource)

Through initiatives like the CareSource Basketball Funfest, CareSource continues to demonstrate the transformative power of community engagement and collaboration. Investing in the well-being and development of young people helps to build a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

"As an organization deeply committed to community engagement and improving health outcomes, we at CareSource are thrilled to partner with the Kansas basketball players to bring joy and inspiration to these young students,” said Chad Moore, president of CareSource Kansas. “Events like the CareSource Basketball Funfest not only promote physical activity and teamwork but also instill a sense of belonging and empowerment critical to child welfare."