MORVEN — Ten years ago, HOLLA founder and CEO Leon Gatewood started Helping Our Loved Ones Learn and Achieve after hearing startling statistics on the test scores of young African-American men in Anson County Schools.
What started as a literacy and learning program has evolved into much more.
In addition to afterschool programs and special events designed to get kids reading and learning, HOLLA now offers a fitness program that includes an award-winning tennis team.
The HOLLA Eagles tennis team was formed in 2011, jump-started by the HOLLA “Let’s Move” fitness program to fight obesity among youth. Gatewood said development of the tennis team was a three-year process made possible by support from parents, community members, the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust and the United Way under the direction of HOLLA activities director Alex Gaddy.
“We will need continued community support to sustain the project,” he said.
In fact, Gatewood said, the HOLLA Eagles need the community’s support now.
The tennis courts are in need of resurfacing and new lighting, as well as new netting and a practice board. Unfortunately, Gatewood said, those items don’t come cheap.
The Eagles also routinely need items like uniforms, equipment and travel expenses to and from tournaments. The team traveled to Florida earlier this year to participate in a national tournament and has become a member of the U.S. Tennis Association.
In order for these young men and ladies to continue on their paths of success, they need their community’s support, Gatewood said.
In celebration of HOLLA’s 10th anniversary and in honor of this team’s achievements, the organization is kicking off a fundraiser for the Eagles with a goal of $25,000.
“It’s definitely doable,” Gatewood said. “I believe the community will come through for us.”
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