“Kids for Keiro” Hoopshoot 2007

　Ranging in age from 6-14 years old, around 100 girls from the Japanese American Optimist (JAO) Invitational Girls’ Basketball League participated in the 3rd annual “Kids for Keiro Hoop Shoot” fundraiser to benefit Keiro Senior HealthCare and its mission of caring for the community’s elders. By securing pledges from sponsors, the girls raised funds for every point their teams scored during this years JAO league game. All together, the girls, representing 23 different teams, raised more than $6,000 for Keiro. “We always hope that every girl feels like a winner. It’s learning how to work and play together, while having a good time,” states Howard Hiyoshida, administrator of South Bay Keiro Nursing Home. We are grateful for the generous support of Leland Lau, commissioner of the JAO Girls’ Invitational Basketball League, and the team representatives who assisted in coordinating this event. “We are very happy that the success of the program continues. We look forward to the 4th “Kids for Keiro” Hoopshoot,” said Leland Lau with much optimism.

Photo Captions:
1. The top fundraisers of this year’s jamboree are, from left to right, Alyssa Middo, Kelli Ota, Kirstyn Middo, Kristin Shigenaga, Lynn Takahashi, Danielle Julifs, and Kaylie Nishimoto with Keiro’s Howard Hiyoshida.
2. Leland Lau, commissioner of the JAO Girl’s Invitational Basketball league
3. Congratulations to Lynn Takahashi, age 8, the top fundraiser two years in a row!

Pull Quote:
“It’s fulfilling to give back to the community. This jamboree is a way to bring the seniors and the children together.” -Howard Hiyoshida