In response to a recent violent act that took the lives of two city youths and has affected hundreds of relatives and friends, a Community Task Force was formed between the City of Amsterdam, GASD, St. Mary’s Healthcare, Centro Civico, and passionate volunteers from our community. As is the case whenever we are faced with tragedy, there has been a welling up of support and compassion that is unmatched by any other community I’ve lived in.
The group’s been discussing aspects of grief and recovery and have come up with several tactics to help heal the deep wound many have suffered, especially our students that will be returning to school in a matter of weeks.
Recognizing this, four young men from the group organized a 3-on-3 basketball tournament focused on stopping violence and growing support for youth activities. John Sumpter, Calvin Martin, Casey Martin and T.J. Czeski put together an event that attracted hundreds of people of all ages. This is no small feat – volunteer scheduling, tents, raffles, refreshments, grills, generators, sound system, referees, score keepers, crowd control, promotion, t-shirts and team sign-ups had to be tightly coordinated. This was managed so well that the event ran as perfectly as the beautiful day God provided. I find it particularly inspiring that such young men are willing to take on the mantle of leadership, giving back so significantly to the city they have grown up in and love.
Huge thanks to all that were involved. The photos below are a few shots of the great day’s activities. Click on any individual photo to enlarge.
Amsterdancin' 
Calvin,John.C.T.,Casey and Trisha so very Proud to have Helped you.What a Great job,you know there was a love of Love,tears,and pride put into what you all did God Bless and I will help anytime.Thanks for Caring and giving to the youth.Donna
I am so very proud of these young men who are helping this community heal from a terrible tragedy and I pray that our city continues to support their efforts.
Your so right PROUD is more than that,they took a tragedy and turned it into a show of love and support,and they are going to continue to show support,My heart goes out to all the familes involved,but most of all to the two son’s who will never live there lives,our City needs to help our children,support them and help them heal God Bless C.T. John,Calvin,Casey and Trisha for the great love and support they show,your so right you love your cousin and he is smiling down on all of you Peace be with you Donna