OUR INITIATIVES
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BASKETBALL PROGRAMS TO UPLIFT THE HEALTH OF OUR YOUTH
Participation in basketball builds full-body physical fitness, sharpens rapid cognitive decision-making, and develops essential lifelong team communication skills. As well studies show that Canadian teens spend an average of about 5.2 hours a day on their phones, and more than half of all Canadian children and youth exceed recommended recreational limits. We know basketball changes these habits.
River Lions Foundation is committed to creating positive opportunities for youth across the Niagara region through accessible basketball and recreation programs. Our programs provide a safe, inclusive environment where youth ages 5–18 can build confidence, develop life skills, and form meaningful connections through sport.
Working with local schools, coaches, and community organizations, we help identify youth who would benefit most from our programs, particularly those facing barriers such as financial challenges or limited access to organized sports. By providing basketball programming, mentorship, equipment, and support, we help young people develop teamwork, communication, resilience, and healthy habits while reducing the risk of isolation, bullying, substance abuse, and other negative outcomes.
Beyond the court, River Lions Foundation coaches serve as mentors who encourage positive choices and help youth develop skills that extend into everyday life. Through sport, we aim to strengthen our community and create lasting impact for the next generation.
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STUBS FOR CUBS TICKET GIVEBACK
Stubs for Cubs is a Niagara River Lions community program built around one simple idea: everyone should have the opportunity to experience the excitement of live sports.
Through the support of our incredible partners, the program provides tickets to local charities, non-profit organizations, and families who may not otherwise have the opportunity to attend a River Lions game. For many young fans, this is their first chance to experience professional basketball, meet local athletes, and be part of the energy and excitement of game day.
Since its launch, Stubs for Cubs has helped create unforgettable memories for children and families across Niagara while connecting them with positive role models and the sport they love.
Our partners play a vital role in making these experiences possible. By supporting Stubs for Cubs, your organization helps bring the community together while receiving recognition through River Lions digital platforms and in-game experiences.
Together, we’re making professional basketball more accessible and creating moments that last long after the final buzzer.
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STRENGTHENING NIAGARA THROUGH FUNDRAISING PARTNERSHIPS
The River Lions Foundation purchases Niagara River Lions tickets in bulk to support local community causes. By partnering with charities and non-profit organizations, the Foundation donates these tickets so groups can resell them below face value for fundraising. Beyond the initial donation, the Foundation actively drives ticket sales through dedicated social media campaigns, web promotion, and grass-roots advocacy.
This program creatives multiple winners. For the donor, your donation to the River Lions Foundation is effectively multiplied by the fundraising chain of our partner non-profit organizations and charities. Our partner organizations have a unique and valuable product from which to raise funds and thus help their service users. With discounted or in some cases free tickets, families have the opportunity to experience the excitement of live sports. For many young fans, this is their first chance to experience professional basketball, meet local athletes, and be part of the energy and excitement of a game day.
MESH REFRESH & HOOP HEALTH
There is nothing more dissapointing to a kid than going to the local basketball court and finding the rim broken or hanging by a bolt. Not having a mesh on the hoop denying the singular sound of a basketball “swishing” through the mesh. Let alone a court with broken down asphalt or faded lines.
The River Lions Foundation in conjunction with Niagara Region municipalities surveys local courts and brings them up to par. We replace torn and missing mesh, we fix broken hoops or backboards. We paint new free throw and 3 point lines on the court. We install solar lights where possible. Lastly we work with parks and recreation to build new courts or repave neglected courts. Getting outside and playing basketball is a precursor to health for kids and adults alike, we help make that happen through this program.
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