AHOSKIE – “It’s not the destination, but the journey.”

The long-standing motto of the Immanuel Kings Mentoring Program continues to hold true after 18 years of serving the community.

The Kings serve young men ages 10-17 from Hertford, Bertie, Northampton, Gates, Camden, Halifax and Beaufort counties. The dropout prevention program uses the game of basketball as a tool to keep the young men focused on physical fitness and academics.

“Our mission is to continue to impart a positive attitude, encourage the importance of athletics, academics and faith and allow their gift to afford them a scholarship to the college of choice to become a productive man in society,” Immanuel Kings President Ernest Cooley Jr. said. “We want to give the children as many opportunities for exposure for their many talents and gifts.”

As part of their success, the Kings have recently seen seven former players earn college scholarships for athletics. They include WyKevin Bazemore (Winston-Salem State University), Shawn Hammonds (Elizabeth City State University), D’Isaac Jordan (Elizabeth City State University), Trace Larabee (Asbury University), Dontez Tyler (Old Dominion University) and Jordan Jones (St. Augustine’s College). In addition, Norman Cherry III received an offer to play basketball at Division III Christopher Newport University.

Recently, the 17-and-under team finished second in North Carolina state competition for Youth Basketball of America (YBOA), which qualified them for participation in the nationals in Orland, Florida.

In addition, the 14-and-under team competed May 20-22 in the USBA.

Both teams qualified for the nationals.
The organization is now seeking help from people throughout the region to help send the young men to the nationals. They need to help raising $10,000 for the trip to defray the cost of lodging, transportation, registration fees and meals.

The Kings are a 501(c) 3 organization so all contributions are tax deductible.

Those wishing to help the Kings make the trip can call 332-6917 for more details or mail donations to Immanuel Kings, 123 Quail Ridge Lane, Ahoskie, NC 27910.