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Basketball courts are more than just a place to play a game. They’re community hubs where memories are made, friendships are formed and dreams come true. But over time, these well-loved courts start getting worn down. The concrete cracks, the hoops get rusty and the spirit of the once-lively court begins to fade.
To the rescue: Buckets & Borders and their community partners! Buckets & Borders began in 2015 as a project to document basketball culture around the world, and by 2020 had evolved into a non-profit organization using basketball as a means to improve communities and bring people together. From Saskatchewan to Halifax, the team at Buckets & Borders has been restoring basketball courts across Canada (and even in Mexico!), creating inviting spaces with the help of local artists.
One of their most recent endeavours was The Mayfair Project in our hometown of Winnipeg, Manitoba. Payworks teamed up with Buckets & Borders and the Winnipeg Sea Bears to help restore two full outdoor basketball courts in downtown Mayfair Park.
Jonato Dalayoan was selected as the Graphic Designer and Visual Artist of The Mayfair Project.
“The artwork designed for The Mayfair Project is not only intended to beautify the space, but to also be inclusive, welcoming and accessible,” said Dalayoan. “It is a priority to not only take inspiration from the land, but also from the people and cultures that make up the community that surrounds the courts.”
Beyond our corporate sponsorship, a team from Payworks also dusted off their paintbrushes and headed to the courts to Pay it Forward.
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A group of Payworks staff in the middle of painting two full-size basketball courts as part of The Mayfair Project
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On July 7, hundreds gathered for the grand opening of The Mayfair Project, which not only featured the unveiling of the incredibly colourful courts, but also offered free youth programming, prize giveaways and a local all-star game.
Buckets & Borders is dedicated to improving communities, bringing people together through basketball by restoring outdoor basketball courts, telling impactful stories, and working collaboratively with communities to fulfill their goals. They plan to be active in more than 25 communities globally by 2025. Click here to see how you can get involved!
Looking to join a team that’s driven to give back? When it comes to great people, there’s always room for one more. Explore life at Payworks here: https://www.payworks.ca/about-us/careers.
Key topics in this article:
Pay It ForwardBusiness OwnerHR ManagementFranchiseeHospitalityWorkplace Culture
