"Along with thousands of other participants, I've made a commitment to participate in a Hoops of Hope, a free throw shooting marathon. I'm doing this to help children who have been orphaned by HIV and AIDS.

Over the past four years, Hoops of Hope participants have raised over $325,000. The money raised by participants has gone to sponsor over 100 orphans, build a high school in Twatchiyanda, Zambia, and last year, build a medical lab and counseling center in Sinazongwe, Zambia.

By my participation this year, I will be helping to raise money for a second medical lab and counseling center in Zambia. These laboratories provide quick and effective HIV/AIDS testing, allowing those who are ill to quickly begin drug therapy and other treatments. This helps prolong the lives of moms and dads and helps keep children from becoming orphans.

Across the world over 5,700 children every day are losing one or both parents to HIV and AIDS. I can't possibly help them all, but if each of us help a little, we can make a big difference!

Will you support me by making a tax deductible donation on my webpage? Donating on this webpage is simple and totally secure. If you would like more information about Hoops of Hope or would also like to join the free throw shooting marathon, you can visit their website at www.hoopsofhope.org"