Preparing youth for the world they’ll face tomorrow.

Winning Hearts Foundation is built on more than a decade of hands‑on leadership, community partnerships, and proven impact in youth development.

We serve youth ages 8–18 from across Nassau County, New York, through year‑round programs that build confidence, discipline, teamwork, and future‑ready skills. Our mission is simple: remove barriers, expand opportunity, and help young people thrive.

What We Offer

  • Year‑round basketball training

  • Academic tutoring & study support

  • Mentorship & leadership development

  • AI, STEM & digital literacy

  • Scholarships & wrap‑around support

Program Goals

  • 100+ youth served annually

  • 85% retention rate

  • 80% increased academic scores

  • 80% increased confidence

Core Programs

Accessible Athletics

Our program operates 40–45 weeks per year and delivers 10-12 hours per week of structured basketball practices, clinics, conditioning, and sportsmanship education.

We remove financial barriers by providing uniforms, equipment, participation support, and fee assistance so every young person can participate fully.

Academic Support and Career Readiness

Students receive 5–7 hours weekly of tutoring, homework help, study skills coaching, and college/career exposure. This consistent engagement strengthens academic performance and classroom confidence.

We introduce emerging technologies through hands‑on learning in AI literacy, digital safety, and STEM exploration. Youth gain foundational skills for future workforce readiness.

Well-being and Mentorship

Weekly mentorship circles and leadership workshops help youth develop communication skills, emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and accountability — essential tools for lifelong success.

Our impact is driven by long-standing community trust, experienced leadership, and a commitment to equity and access.

How We Make a Difference

  • Youth gain consistent access to safe, structured activities

  • Families receive financial support that removes participation barriers

  • Students build stronger study habits and academic confidence

  • Athletes develop resilience, teamwork, and discipline

  • Teens gain exposure to emerging technologies and future‑ready skills

Our Team

We’re led by experienced practitioners who have spent over 10 years running high‑quality sports camps, clinics, leagues, and youth programs that collectively serve more than 1,000 young people every year.

Our initial founding board is supported by 5 paid staff with years of combined experience in direct service delivery for youth in our community.

Founders

  • Leroy Samuel III — Chair, Founder, Executive Director

  • Desmond Frazier — Co‑Chair

  • Ione Parker — Secretary

“Every young person deserves a place where they feel seen, supported, and capable of greatness. We created Winning Hearts to make that real.”

- Leroy Samuel

Connect with us

Whether you’re looking to participate, volunteer, or donate to our cause, we want to hear from you!