Toronto's real estate industry raises $111,000 to support accessible sport for youth facing systemic barriers

Last month, Ballin’ Out for Charity held its second annual basketball tournament, which brought together the real estate industry to make a positive impact in local communities.

The event was organized by RAD Marketing and Blackline and took place at the Goldring Centre on the University of Toronto campus.

$111,000 raised to remove barriers limiting accessible sport participation for youth

Developers, construction companies, trades, agencies and brokerages came out to support MLSE Foundation, an organization that, with the support of Toronto Argos, Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors and Toronto FC, has invested over $67 million in youth and communities faced with systemic barriers across Ontario. This year’s Ballin’ Out for Charity event raised $111,000.

Brett Fyfer, MLSE Foundation’s campaign director, says, “MLSE Foundation is proud to partner with Ballin’ Out for Charity and see their support go toward our Change the Game Campaign. MLSE Foundation remains committed to removing the barriers that limit accessible sport participation for young people so that they reach their full potential. Our work has shown us that it’s not a lack of potential holding back young people in Ontario, but a lack of opportunity.”

The day’s events

The full-day event kicked off with 20 teams playing 3-on-3 basketball games. Food and activities were offered throughout the day, including performances by the Raptors North Side Crew, a half-court shot contest and a trip to Mexico raffled off.

Tim Ng, principal at Blackline, reflects: “What started as a pick-up game with some industry peers grew into the idea of using basketball as a conduit to promote teamwork, sportsmanship and philanthropy within our industry to create a positive impact in the communities we work in.”

Re/Max Millennium Realty vs Topcrete Forming in the Ballin’ Out for Charity final

Sean Zahedi, executive vice president at RAD Marketing, acknowledges how tight-knit the industry is and the fact it truly cares about the communities it’s building.

“Ballin’ Out for Charity has been established as a platform for us to give back to these communities while also creating opportunities for the younger generations to get involved,” he says. “This is just the beginning and we foresee this annual tournament to continue to grow within the industry and through our social impact.”