WHAT WE DO

Lend a Hand to Youth Basketball Non-Profit Organizations

Help Young Athletes Focus on the Mental Game

Support Boys and Girls Youth Basketball Programs

SCHOLARSHIPS

The Power Forward Foundation offers scholarships to organized basketball programs for boys and girls between grades 3-11 to help improve their mental, emotional and physical health.

The National Institute of Mental Health estimates a prevalence of anxiety between the ages of 13-18 to be 25%. Sports play a vital role in communities helping kids socialize, learn valuable life lessons and stay physically healthy.

STATS

Measuring Success Through Our Achievements

$15K

Worth of Scholarships

We have given $15K worth of scholarships to kids in 2025

SCHOLARSHIPS SINCE 2024

We have provided 91 scholarships since our beginning

Athletes Helped

We have given out scholarships to 70 different rising athletes

10+

Programs

We have helped our hoopers compete in 10+ different programs

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to remove financial barriers to youth basketball in the Philadelphia area through scholarships, programming, and partnerships with community-based nonprofits. We envision a future in Philadelphia where every young person who wants to play basketball can — and where the game develops better players, better teammates, and better leaders for life.

Our Executive Director, Matt Paul’s Story

GAME CHANGER AWARD

The Game Changer Award recognizes coaches who go beyond the court to lead with purpose, honoring those whose community outreach and leadership create lasting opportunities for youth. Recipients demonstrate a sustained commitment to mentorship, inclusion, and program development—organizing accessible clinics, securing resources for underserved players, and fostering partnerships that expand pathways to education and personal growth. Through ethical coaching, advocacy, and a focus on character-building, Game Changer honorees inspire teams and neighborhoods alike, proving that sports can be a powerful vehicle for social change and community resilience.

2024 GAME CHANGER HONOREE

FRAN DUNPHY

Fran Dunphy is a prominent American college basketball coach, with a distinguished coaching career, primarily at the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, and La Salle University. Dunphy is known for his strong leadership and mentorship and he’s had a tremendous impact on the basketball community and the many players he’s coached throughout his career.

2025 GAME CHANGER HONOREE

MO HOWARD

Mo Howard played in the NBA during the 1976-77 season with the Cleveland Cavaliers and later with the New Orleans Jazz. He is the founder of the Philadelphia Black Basketball Hall of Fame (PBBHOF), dedicated to participating in community outreach and sponsoring youth competitive local basketball leagues. Mo Howard continues to inspire both on and off the court.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR