Hoop for LIFE

For my 30th birthday (September 25th, 2009) I decided to have a benefit basketball game called Hoop for LIFE. It was a charity game to raise funds for the Real LIFE Foundation’s first Community Center.

Real LIFE is a foundation that focuses on scholarships and feeding programs for underprivileged students and families. I decided to call some of my friends from the Philippine Basketball Association (the premier professional basketball league) and have a fundraising game for the cause.

This was one of the most tiring things we have ever done. We had no experience at all in planning and hosting a high-profile charity event. God is good. He sent a lot of people our way who pitched in and helped make this event a success. We have a much deeper respect and appreciation for those who do these on a regular basis.

It’s really hard work and had to learn the hard way. Nevertheless it was a wonderful experience and we really learned a lot.

The event was a great success. God gets the credit 100%. He is good and faithful.

Initially it was only supposed to be a small pick up game on one of the cement courts in Pasig City. Really just wanted to bless the city and the community.

But it evolved, and I do believe God was behind it every step of the way. We were able to raise more than 500 thousand pesos worth of cash, products, and building materials.

The Pasig City Mayor Bobby Eusebio decided to partner with us. He provided the venue, security, and agreed to give all the paint and cement for the center.

We also had a special guest from my friend Nonito Donaire, Jr. a world boxing champion. He really has such a bright future and many believe he will be the next big thing behind Manny Pacquiao.

God has opened up so many doors with this event. We have learned so much in the process as well. God has used this event not only to impact lives but has also given Robert a vision and many dreams regarding basketball and ministry here in the Philippines.

I am so excited see to what God has in store for us here in the Philippines. He has opened up many doors for us from all walks of life. Because of all the media and print exposure I am getting request from people all over the country to want to do an event in their city.

I am so grateful that God has given me this platform of basketball here. Now I am getting a better idea of why He brought me here to this country and even to play in the PBA. And it is to do one thing. To glorify Him and Preach the Gospel. Share the love of Jesus Christ to those who haven’t heard and felt it. To God be the Glory.