By Derik Hicks
In a heartwarming display of community spirit and commitment to education, the Fathers & Men of Professional Basketball Players (FAMPBP), including North Carolina’s Charles Paul — father of NBA star Chris Paul — joined forces with Billingsville-Cotswold Elementary for a back-to-school supply drive. This event, held last fall, highlighted the transformative power of collaboration and support in bridging educational resource gaps.
Supporting a community in need
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools proudly announced the adoption of Billingsville-Cotswold Elementary by FAMPBP, marking a milestone in the school’s ongoing mission to foster academic success and equity. The organization generously donated 744 back-to-school kits and 100 headsets for student assessments. These contributions help to support a diverse student body that Principal Alicia Hash describes as “families from different demographic and socioeconomic backgrounds, all committed to their children’s success.”
“This is more than just supplies,” Hash said. “It’s a message to our students that their education matters and that they have a village of supporters invested in their success.”
An exciting kickoff event
The supply distribution was far from an ordinary affair. The day began with a surprise pep rally, energizing students with the help of East Mecklenburg High School cheerleaders. As fathers from the organization walked into the gymnasium, the excitement was palpable. The students were thrilled, some even speculating that NBA legends like LeBron James might make an appearance.
The highlight of the day came when the students received their supplies directly from the fathers, including Charles Paul. “One little guy’s mom sent a picture of her son proudly holding his notebook, exclaiming, ‘Chris Paul’s dad gave me this,’” Hash shared.
A broader vision
The FAMPBP has a storied history of philanthropy across the nation, supporting schools through mentoring programs, resource donations and initiatives aimed at empowering underserved communities. Dr. Chance Lewis, who leads the Urban Education Doctoral Program at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, facilitated their partnership with Billingsville-Cotswold.
“When Dr. Lewis reached out about this opportunity, it was an easy decision,” Hash said. “Our school community thrives on partnerships that align with our mission to provide students with the tools and support they need to succeed.”
Why are the initiatives of FAMPBP important? “The playing field is not even for everyone.” Charles Paul explained. “It’s about doing something about it and not just talking.”
Building momentum for the future
This collaboration may be just the beginning. While the initial focus was on equipping students for the academic year, discussions are already underway to expand the partnership. Hash expressed enthusiasm for potential support for the school’s extracurricular activities, particularly its elementary basketball league.
“Basketball is a powerful motivator for our students. It builds teamwork, discipline and confidence,” she explained. “We’re exploring ways FAMPBP can help strengthen our program as the season kicks off in January.”
The event’s impact extended beyond the students. Parents and staff celebrated the partnership on social media, praising the positive energy and generosity displayed. “To know there are people across the globe who care about our students’ success is a powerful lesson,” Hash remarked. “It reinforces the idea that it truly takes a village to raise a child, and that village can include people you’ve never met.”
A legacy of impact
This initiative reflects FAMPBP’s broader mission to uplift communities and inspire the next generation. By stepping into classrooms and engaging directly with students, they’re showing that leadership extends beyond the basketball court.
For Paul and the other fathers, this partnership is deeply personal. As men who have witnessed the power of mentorship and opportunity in their own families, they are now paying it forward. Their message is simple: every child deserves the chance to succeed, and it is our collective responsibility to make that happen.
As Billingsville-Cotswold Elementary students gear up for the school year, they carry with them not just new supplies but a renewed sense of hope and belonging. With organizations like FAMPBP by their side, the future looks bright.