COLUMBIA, Mo. — The Stars basketball team made a meaningful visit to Alpha Hart Lewis Elementary this week, engaging with students while promoting the Champions of Character program through interactive activities. The event was part of the team's community outreach efforts, in line with the NAIA's Champions of Character initiative.

Softball graduate Lyndsey Hood, the 2023-24 Association of Student Athletes (ASA) Champions of Character officer, spearheaded this initiative last year by creating a coloring book focused on the NAIA's five core values: Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Servant Leadership, and Sportsmanship. This innovative project, designed to teach young students about the importance of good character, featured a dedicated page for each core value alongside engaging illustrations.

During the visit, the Stars team members spent time coloring with the children, discussing the importance of these values, and fostering positive relationships. The event was particularly special for the team as Alpha Hart Lewis Elementary is where former Stars basketball player Brooke Peters currently teaches.

Head coach Andre Bell expressed his enthusiasm for the team's involvement in the community. "I love working with the local school and youth, and what better way to get the team out there in the community more?" Bell said.

In continuing their outreach, the Stars basketball team will visit the Stephens College Children's School on Sept. 13 at 1 p.m. to engage with more local students.

The Champions of Character initiative aims to use athletics as a platform to instill values in young students, and the Stars' visit reinforced their commitment to giving back to the community while highlighting the impact sports can have beyond the court.