Empowering All

One Person At A Time

Hoops 4 Life is dedicated to helping young people rise—on and off the court. With compassionate staff, engaging activities, and a community-centered approach, we meet every participant where they are and help them become who they’re meant to be.

Leveling the Playing Field —

On and Off the Court

Empowering underserved youth in Waterbury, CT through basketball, STEAM, Arts, Mentorship, and Life-Transition Readiness.

DESIGN THE LIFE

they TRULY DESERVE

At Hoops 4 Life, we believe every young person deserves the chance to dream big and design a future filled with purpose. Our programs are built to nurture the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. From the basketball court to the classroom, from creative arts to life-readiness skills, we provide the tools, mentorship, and community support that help youth rise above challenges and step confidently into their future.

Through structured training, academic enrichment, and positive role models, students don’t just learn how to play the game—they learn how to lead, how to solve problems, and how to chase their goals with discipline and determination. Hoops 4 Life is more than a program; it’s a pathway to the life every child truly deserves.

Download our NEW book!

Beyond the Court:

A Parent’s Guide to Youth Basketball Success

A practical resource designed to help families support their child’s growth both on and off the court. This guide goes beyond drills and game strategy, offering parents tips on balancing academics with athletics, building healthy habits around nutrition and rest, and nurturing character traits like teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Whether your child is just starting out or playing at a competitive level, this e-book equips parents with the tools and encouragement to foster confidence, consistency, and a lifelong love for the game.

DESIGN THE LIFE

they TRULY DESERVE

At Hoops 4 Life, we believe every young person deserves the chance to dream big and design a future filled with purpose. Our programs are built to nurture the whole child—mind, body, and spirit. From the basketball court to the classroom, from creative arts to life-readiness skills, we provide the tools, mentorship, and community support that help youth rise above challenges and step confidently into their future.

Through structured training, academic enrichment, and positive role models, students don’t just learn how to play the game—they learn how to lead, how to solve problems, and how to chase their goals with discipline and determination. Hoops 4 Life is more than a program; it’s a pathway to the life every child truly deserves.

Download our NEW E-book!

Beyond the Court:

A Parent’s Guide to Youth Basketball Success

A practical resource designed to help families support their child’s growth both on and off the court. This guide goes beyond drills and game strategy, offering parents tips on balancing academics with athletics, building healthy habits around nutrition and rest, and nurturing character traits like teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Whether your child is just starting out or playing at a competitive level, this e-book equips parents with the tools and encouragement to foster confidence, consistency, and a lifelong love for the game.

Experience

Hoops 4 Life

See our programs, meet our staff, and explore the supportive, engaging environment where children and young adults grow and thrive. Tours are personally hosted by our Founder, Deneen Fryer, who will guide you through our facility, answer your questions, and show you how Hoops 4 Life is making a difference in the community. Whether you’re a parent, potential partner, or supporter, this is your opportunity to experience our mission up close.

Support

Our Mission

Hoops 4 Life is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving youth in Waterbury and Greater Naugatuck Valley. We lean on community partners, sponsors, and grants to keep our programs affordable and accessible—from $25 to $70. Your support ensures ongoing access to athletic, educational, and mentoring opportunities that change lives.

HERE'S HOW we

HELP the children

Sports & Basketball Enrichment

Youth Basketball Leagues (Grades 4–12, June 24–July 19, 2025; $70) — Expert coaching, structured gameplay, and confidence-building in a supportive environment.
AAU Teams, Training & Leagues — Elite-level competitive teams, focused development, and educational support starting at age 8.

LEARN MORE!

STEM & Creative Arts

STEAM Classes — A six-week program (Saturdays, 12pm–1pm; ages 8–14; $25) nurturing curiosity across Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math
Graphic Design Explorers — $35; creative visuals and digital art skills
Theater Arts Program — $35; dramatic expression and performance-based learning
Gaming Tournaments — Monthly competitive events ($50) blending strategy, teamwork, and digital literacy
Music Team / DJ Enrichment — Six-week sessions (Mondays 4:30–5:30pm; ages 9–13; $30) exploring music production and DJing

LEARN MORE!

Life Skills & Transition Support

The “4 What’s Next” Program — A 15-day course ($35) arming students with essential soft skills to navigate life transitions—from school to college, career, or military paths

LEARN MORE!

Work Placement Program

The Hoops 4 Life Workforce Development Program is designed to equip young adults with the skills, confidence, and experience they need to succeed in today’s workplace. Through hands-on training, career exploration, and daily coaching, participants learn essential job-readiness habits—from communication and teamwork to time management and task performance. Our supportive environment helps each individual discover their strengths, build real-world competencies, and take meaningful steps toward independence and community employment. Hoops 4 Life empowers young adults not only to find jobs, but to thrive in them.

LEARN MORE!

H4L DDS Division – Day Program

A Day Services Program for Individuals with Developmental Needs

Hoops 4 Life’s DDS Day Program helps individuals build work, life, and social skills through employment, pre-vocational training, and structured pro social activities designed in consideration of personal preference and ability, while promoting independence.

Program Goals:

Skills: Develop practical life skills and job abilities to increase confidence.
Socialization: Create and provide a safe space for forming positive interpersonal relationships and improving communication skills.
Opportunities: Offer job skill activities suited to each person’s strengths and preferences.
Healthy Choices: Support positive decisions, self-esteem, and self-advocacy.-

LEARN MORE!

H4L DCF Division – Day Program

A Day Services Program FOR SUPPORT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

Hoops 4 Life’s DCF Day Program helps individuals build work, life, and social skills through employment, pre-vocational training, and structured pro social activities designed in consideration of personal preference and ability, while promoting independence.

Program Goals:

Skills: Develop practical life skills and job abilities to increase confidence.
Socialization: Create and provide a safe space for forming positive interpersonal relationships and improving communication skills.
Opportunities: Offer job skill activities suited to each person’s strengths and preferences.
Healthy Choices: Support positive decisions, self-esteem, and self-advocacy.-

LEARN MORE!

HERE'S HOW we

HELP the children

Sports & Basketball Enrichment

Youth Summer Basketball League (Grades 4–12, June 24–July 19, 2025; $70) — Expert coaching, structured gameplay, and confidence-building in a supportive environment.
AAU Teams, Training & Leagues — Elite-level competitive teams, focused development, and educational support starting at age 8.

STEM & Creative Arts

STEAM Classes — A six-week program (Saturdays, 12pm–1pm; ages 8–14; $25) nurturing curiosity across Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math
Graphic Design Explorers — $35; creative visuals and digital art skills
Theater Arts Program — $35; dramatic expression and performance-based learning
Gaming Tournaments — Monthly competitive events ($50) blending strategy, teamwork, and digital literacy
Music Team / DJ Enrichment — Six-week sessions (Mondays 4:30–5:30pm; ages 9–13; $30) exploring music production and DJing

Life Skills & Transition Support

The “4 What’s Next” Program — A 15-day course ($35) arming students with essential soft skills to navigate life transitions—from school to college, career, or military paths

LET's GET SOCIAL

Hoops 4 Life

Hoops 4 Life is a community-centered organization dedicated to empowering youth, young adults, and individuals with developmental disabilities through structured programs that build confidence, character, and lifelong skills. Come vist us today!

Address: 174 Grand Street, Waterbury, CT 06702-1028

Phone: 203 575-4340

Meet the Team of Professionals

The dedicated staff at Hoops 4 Life bring a powerful mix of passion, experience, and heart to every program. From skilled basketball coaches to creative arts mentors and life-skills leaders, our team is committed to guiding young people both on and off the court. Each staff member shares a common mission—helping youth build confidence, discover their gifts, and prepare for bright futures. With mentorship at the core of what we do, the Hoops 4 Life staff serve not only as instructors, but as role models who inspire, challenge, and encourage every student to reach their full potential.