BOSTON – The Boston Celtics and Dunkin’ today unveiled a newly renovated outdoor basketball court at The Salvation Army Boston Kroc Center in Dorchester, marking the fourth court renovation completed through the organizations’ partnership and their first outdoor court renovation. This is the second court renovation in Boston to benefit The Salvation Army.
Boston Celtics player Neemias Queta joined Celtics mascot “Lucky” the Leprechaun, representatives from Dunkin’ and The Salvation Army, and 50 youth from the Boston Kroc Center to celebrate the unveiling. Following the reveal, youth took part in a basketball clinic with Queta and received giveaways including hats, wristbands, other exclusive co-branded items and tickets to an upcoming Celtics’ game against the Dallas Mavericks.
“You never know what kids may be going through, so being present, offering support, and taking even 30 minutes or an hour out of my day to make a difference is something I really enjoy doing,” said Queta. I really enjoyed getting to play pickleball with everyone today.”
The renovation was custom tailored for the unique needs of the Salvation Army Boston Kroc Center, and included repairing cracks and resurfacing the entire court, repainting basketball and pickleball lines, installing two new adjustable hoop systems, adding custom backboard graphics and incorporating Celtics, Dunkin’® and Salvation Army branding throughout the space.
“As a local business owner, serving the community of Dorchester every day is a privilege,” said Dunkin’ franchisee Sue Andrade. “Pride in this neighborhood runs deep, and seeing this court renovation come to life is personal for my family. Partnering with the Boston Celtics and the Salvation Army Boston Kroc Center gives us the chance to provide local youth a safe, premium space to get outdoors, build important leadership skills, and connect with their neighbors.”
Since opening in April 2011, The Salvation Army Boston Kroc Center has provided programs and services for thousands of children, teens, adults and families across the greater Boston area. The Boston Kroc is one of New England’s largest and most comprehensive community centers, reflecting The Salvation Army’s commitment to building communities of hope and compassion. The center provides a safe, welcoming space with opportunities for social services, athletics, education, personal development, spiritual growth, and service for people of all ages.
“As we celebrate 15 years of serving our community, The Salvation Army Boston Kroc Center is deeply grateful to our partners at the Boston Celtics and Dunkin' for investing in a safe, welcoming outdoor space for teens, families, and community groups,” said Major Elvie Carter, The Salvation Army Boston Kroc Center. “This renovated court builds on our commitment to promoting health, wellness, fitness, and athletics while creating opportunities for the next generation to thrive. The outdoor court renovation continues the Celtics and Dunkin’® partnership’s investment in basketball spaces serving youth throughout the region.”