Fulton Houses Basketball Tournament Promotes Healthy Communities  

On May 22, a health-inspired message was delivered through basketball in a tournament hosted by the Fulton Houses community.  

“Spread health, not hate” was the theme of the day for teams at the co-ed basketball tournament held on outdoor courts near NYCHA’s Fulton Houses. More than 150 players ages 8 and older joined the competition from the Fulton community and other NYCHA developments in Manhattan.   

The tournament was sponsored by community health center Avian Fit, with support from the NYPD, the Fulton Houses Resident Association, NYCHA, and Burgerology. Hundreds of community members came out to cheer on the players at the event, which also featured performances by live musicians and DJs.  

Along with promoting healthy living and activities, the tournament took on an anti-violence focus as well, according to Fulton Houses Resident Association President Miguel Acevedo. 

“The main goal was to bring the community together in stopping the violence and have a healthy initiative to get people in the conversation,” said Mr. Acevedo, who has helped organize other local events, including Family Days and National Night Out. “The health initiative is about getting fit, exercising, and eating healthier.”