HOOP STARS was started in October of 2000 by then 12 year old Meaghan Kelly, who was inspired by an Oprah show on children who do charitable work. She raised money from friends and relatives to buy basketball uniforms and other equipment. The West Side Association for Community Action (WACA) then introduced Meaghan to Steve Space and James Brooks, who have spent many volunteer hours coaching. WACA rented gym space at the BBR Youth Center in the Lawndale Community on Chicago's West side. The first year, two basketball camps were held for 25-30 children where the children learned teamwork, discipline, sportsmanship and the value of hard work. The program has started again this fall with more than 50 children and will continue through the spring and hopefully for many years to come.