Talk about a pillar in the community, the Running Rebels Community Organization is a heavy hitter in the Milwaukee County. As the organization has been around for decades, they’ve been a company that leads with love. Many amazing men in the community have been a part of this organization since a kid. At first, the Running Rebels targeted trouble youth who need a little EXTRA love and attention. But now, the Rebels are catering to all youth, helping them build their skill sets to become successful.
The Running Rebels Community Organization engages the community, youth, and their families, prevents involvement in gangs, drugs, violence, and the juvenile justice system, intervenes and guides youth by assisting them with making positive choices, and coaches youth through their transition into adulthood. They accomplish this through building relationships with youth and providing the resources and skills necessary for them to become thriving, connected, and contributing adult members of our community.
In 1980, at the age of 19, Victor Barnett saw many of the young people of Milwaukee being pulled into the street life of gangs, crime, and violence. He used basketball as the tool to engage, mentor and guide youth towards an alternative path that would ensure their future success. From this vision and action, Running Rebels Community Organization was born. Today Running Rebels is a mentoring organization that serves 2,500 youth annually.
Over the weekend they hosted a Rebel Rumble Charity Basketball Game with NBA Player, Kevon Looney and Dwight Buycks. Hundreds of fans and supporters came out. The games we’re fast paced and intense. Each team stood their ground and didn’t back down. Looney and his squad won the game and everyone had a great time.
Many families came out together and the youth had a blast. This is the kind of stuff we need in our city. We need organizations willing to lead; organizations that build up children and men. The Running Rebels are a blessing to have. It was also a blessing that Kevon Looney and Dwight Buycks chose to serve the community that day.
Giving back, whether with your time, money, or skill set says a lot. It shows your character and it shows that you care. We need so much more of it. Kids need to see that they’re dreams can come true if they work for it. They need to see that it’s possible to become successful with hard work. They must see that teamwork makes the dream work and they are not alone.
Shoutout to the Victor Barnett and the Running Rebels for always putting their best foot forward in making a difference right here in Milwaukee. Your work can never go unnoticed.