In the spirit of community engagement and collaboration, Western New England University (WNE) basketball players joined forces with the Springfield-based 413 Elite Foundation to inspire local youth through the sport of basketball.
Professor of Marketing Janelle Goodnight facilitated the opportunity between the students and the foundation. Goodnight models what she teaches; she is also a business owner. Her business, Cherished Mane, always seeks opportunities for community collaboration that balances the beneficial with the promotional.
Through conversations this fall, Goodnight and Charles Evans saw an opportunity to merge their efforts for a greater cause. Evans, owner of the 413 Elite ABA basketball team, established the 413 Elite Foundation with a mission to uplift and empower Springfield-area youth by fostering teamwork, leadership, and life skills through basketball. He has been a valued client of Goodnight’s College of Business students for the past year and a half, working closely on various business and marketing initiatives.
When the 413 Elite Foundation hosted a basketball clinic for approximately 24 Springfield-area children, Goodnight recognized the value of the experience for WNE basketball students looking for a service opportunity.
Three players from WNE’s Men’s Basketball Team and two from the Women’s Basketball Team volunteered at the clinic, offering mentorship and guidance to the young athletes. To enhance the experience, participants received complimentary headbands featuring the 413 Elite logo or the team’s mascot, Mr. Buckets, courtesy of Cherished Mane.
“This is a fantastic way for our students to demonstrate the Golden Bear spirit and to connect with impactful local initiatives,” said Goodnight.
By volunteering their time and energy, WNE student-athletes exemplify the values of leadership, teamwork, and service, helping to create memorable experiences for Springfield youth while supporting a nonprofit dedicated to growth and development through sport.
