by Donna Wells, Executive Director of the Gloucester County YMCA

When Suzanne mentioned that World Basketball Day was December 21st, I was immediately inspired. After all, the YMCA invented basketball — this is our holiday!

But there was one small challenge: it fell on a Sunday, and with turnaround time so tight (and I recently started as the new Executive Director), pulling off something big just wasn’t realistic.

Still, I couldn’t let the moment pass.

So, I called in a favor.

Our Adult Men’s Basketball League has a longtime rental partner, and he graciously connected me with his Sixers representative. On Friday night — literally on my drive home — I made the call. By the time I pulled into my driveway, we had secured a family four-pack of tickets to the Sixers’ December 23rd game against Brooklyn.

And it just happened to be Youth Sports Night.

Now this was starting to feel meant to be.

Choosing Our MVP Family

On Monday, December 22nd, I brought in our Youth Sports Coordinator. I kept it simple.

“If you had to name one family who truly represents the Y, who’s deeply involved in our sports programs, who would you call our MVP?”

Without hesitation, he told me about a family with 11-year-old twin boys. Great students. Talented athletes. Respectful, hardworking kids. Parents who are fully invested — supportive, present, and engaged.

Exactly the kind of family that embodies what the Gloucester County YMCA stands for.

So, I picked up the phone and called Mom — while he watched, still not knowing what I was about to say.

The Call

We chatted for a few minutes. She mentioned the boys are Valentine’s babies. I asked if they were Sixers fans.

“Yes,” she said, “but they also like the Bulls because of Jordan.”

I laughed and said, “Mama, you are raising those boys right!”

Then I explained:

The YMCA invented basketball. World Basketball Day had just passed. And in the spirit of celebrating the game — and the families who make youth sports so special — we wanted to surprise one deserving family with four tickets to the Sixers’ Youth Sports Night game… the very next day.

Josh’s face lit up as he listened in on the call.

Mom was elated.

It turned out to be the one day the boys didn’t have practice, which made it even more perfect. They were able to surprise them — a memory they’ll never forget.

Later, Mom emailed me a heartfelt thank-you along with pictures from the game. Smiling faces. Arena lights. Pure joy.

Why We Do What We Do

Moments like this remind me why we do what we do.

Basketball was invented at a YMCA in Massachusetts in 1891. But more importantly, it continues to create connection, opportunity, and unforgettable memories — 135 years later.

To be in a position where you can impact lives, even in a small but meaningful way, is a beautiful thing.

And sometimes, all it takes is one phone call on the drive home.