A Golden Ticket

He cut a lonely figure, sitting there on those concrete steps, all by himself. 

How could this be? You might ask. In a borough of 1.6 million people, one of the most densely populated places on earth. Lonely? 

Alfonso’s life was encapsulated within four city blocks. The Manhattanville Houses, a complex of six buildings jammed with 3,000 residents. This was his world, his community, and identity. Yet there he was, a basketball at his feet and a can of soda in his hand. By himself.

From a distance he saw a young man ascending the hill. He was coming Alfonso’s way. What was this about? Alfonso had reason to be wary. The realities of his neighborhood were harsh. This was a place of gang rivalries, fiercely protected territories, and ever-present danger. 

But the young man had a sheaf of fliers in his hand, and he didn’t look the least bit menacing as he joined Alfonso on the concrete steps.

“I’m Martín,” he said, “with Street2Street. We’re starting a basketball program in Manhattanville. I’m inviting you.” 

As he learned about Street2Street’s program, Alfonso sensed he was being handed not so much a flier as a lifeline. His eagerness was palpable as he asked Martín to confirm not once, not twice, but four times, that the program was indeed happening at the Manhattanville Community Center.

It was as if he needed reassurance that this opportunity was real. And with each confirmation, Alfonso's smile expanded. He was more than excited, he was giddy.

Alfonso joined Martín and together they went door to door, building to building, passing out fliers, inviting other kids to the basketball program starting that night. And much like Alfonso, other teens could scarcely believe that such a program would be right in their neighborhood, within reach, just for them. 

And later, as Alfonso walked into the gym with Martín, he saw that it was all very real. And he had received something more than a flier. It was a golden ticket, an opportunity to change his life and rewrite his future. Alfonso would be surrounded by teammates, encouraged by mentors, guided by trained and caring leaders who know God has a hope and a future planned for him.

And, never alone.

Thank you for making this possible!