History

On July 15, 1997 co-founder Bobby Brown, his two older sisters and 10 month old niece became victims of a drive-by shooting in Minneapolis, MN. This devastating incident left Bobby, then 15 years old, with a spinal cord injury from a single bullet and his eldest sister survived being shot twice in her legs with a handgun. That frightful evening of terror and violence left a family, community and city forever changed.

This senseless act of violence and Bobby's love of sports inspired the Brown family to start a nonprofit to raise awareness about the effects of violence as well to share their story of hope with other inner city youth.

Since our first basketball clinic at Central Gym, July 15 1998 - the one year anniversary of the shooting - Bobby Brown's "Beyond the Court" Violence Prevention Initiatives has reached thousands youth and continues to share our message through innovative youth programming.

Over the years, the organization has created programming such as:

Beyond the Court Basketball Clinic

A violence prevention strategy providing participating youth with opportunities to: learn basketball and sportsmanship skills; interact with positive youth and adult role models; reinforce a philosophy of nonviolence; win a trophy, and have fun. Parents are also given the opportunity to receive counsel on dealing with parenting issues they may encounter. Read more…

Books and Basketball

A mentoring program that provides teenage men of color with positive role models, shared knowledge gained through academic and corporate experience, and raised awareness and support in their personal development in the Twin Cities. Read more…

Women's Retreat

A get-a-way for women who have been affected by gun violence and other traumatic events with the objective of helping them begin the healing process in a serene and tranquil setting through meditation, reflection, and learnings from speakers and their fellow attendees.

A Time to Heal Luncheon

An event that provides individuals and families who have been affected by gun violence and traumatic events the opportunity to join together and share their stories, provide empathy for each other, and consider the avenue of forgiveness as a tool of healing.

My Brother's Keeper

A talent showcase and dance event that provides children and youth with a platform to express themselves artistically in a positive fashion.