About
What is Free Throws for Kids?
A family-friendly, fun, and high energy annual fundraising event that takes place at Lakota West High School's gym.
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Each team collectively shoots 500 free throws with live scoring, awards for the best shooting team, and a "best shooter" contest at the end of each session.
Additionally, there is a $20 Hoop Contest and incredible prizes throughout each session. Anyone can participate!
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Where does the money go?
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1
We surprise 1,000 patients and their families throughout the year at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital with care packages, each valued at $125. These packages include comfort items such as fleece blankets and journals, along with gift cards for fuel, food, and the hospital cafeteria.
2
We donate $3,000 each month to the Cincinnati Ronald McDonald House to help provide fresh fruits and vegetables. Thanks to this ongoing support, over 177 families enjoy healthy, nutritious meals every day.
3
We grant $10,000 each year to the social services department at Cincinnati Children’s Liberty branch. This division assists patients and their families with immediate, real-time needs.
4
We allocate any surplus funds from the event to the FTFK Legacy Fund, ensuring a lasting impact. This approach allows the cause and contributions to endure forever, creating a legacy beyond our lifetime. To learn more, please contact us at Info@FTFK.org.
How did it start?
A visit to Children’s Hospital in college pulled at Mark’s heart to help families in need. Years went by & one day, while shooting hoops at the gym, Mark had the amazing idea to combine his love for basketball and help families in a practical way.
While he was brainstorming the idea, a family in his small group was going through the loss of their child at Children’s Hospital, and a care package was created. Mark brought the vision to his small group, and Free Throws for Kids was born.
How many people participate?
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In 2024, we had 60 teams & 520 shooters.
How much money has the event raised?
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2014: $42,255
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2015: $109,008
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2016: $124,198
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2017: $148,944
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2018: $154,313
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2019: $189,589
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2020: $122,620 (COVID)
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2021: $16,818 (COVID, Disney Raffle)
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2022: $128,067
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2023: $163,157
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2024: $222,174
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Total: $1,421,143
“The fuel card was so helpful since we travel 45 minutes each way, every day for 3 months for our child to get the treatment he needs.”
“The day we received the care package one of our daughters went into surgery and it was very uplifting knowing there were others out there who cared.”