JD-Associates modernise local community organisation

In Spring 2005 Toxteth Tigers Basketball Programme approached JD-Associates with a view to modernising the nearly 40-year-old organisation. Since that time the ‘Tigers' has become a registered charity, Trustees with a vast range of skills and diversity have been recruited, and new systems and policies implemented. As well as changing the whole structure of the organisation and implementing the PQASSO accredited Quality Assurance system, JD-Associates have also been instrumental in raising almost £120,000 to try and provide sustainability for this high profile and vital community resource.

Amongst the new funders are the Central Liverpool PCT, Merseyside Police and the BBC Children in Need. Their financial support will ensure that young people with ability, predominately from the BME Communities, will be able to compete at the national level, and play in kit carrying the web address for Merseyside Police. The recruitment of two Basketball Coach/Mentors will ensure that basketball will appear in all the local primary schools and also in several secondary schools. The two coaches are Luke Elliott and Brian Scharrenweber.

The aim is to attract 500 young people into the sport in the next year. Coach Elliott said, ‘We use basketball to try and present positive role models to our participants. Through this we hope reduce anti-social behaviour, improve health and reduce obesity, deter young people from entering a life of crime/drugs and alcohol, and to improve attainment at school.'

If you are interested in becoming a part of the Programme as a player, volunteer or coach, or if you are a teacher, parent or potential sponsor, please contact the office on 0151 708 7507