A Slam Dunk for Kindness: The Salvation Army Teams Up with SLU Billikens Basketball
In a remarkable collaboration blending sports, community spirit, and generosity, The Salvation Army recently joined forces with the Saint Louis University Billikens for a memorable game day event. On Dec. 16, Chaifetz Arena buzzed with excitement as the SLU Billikens men’s basketball team squared off against Louisiana Tech.
Major Adam Moore, Metro Area Commander of The Salvation Army, was honored with the match ball signed by team players. Major Moore's interview with game commentators aired during halftime on NewsRadio 1120 KMOX, and resonated with the spirit of giving and community service.
Then came the halftime showstopper - the teddy bear toss. In a spectacular display of generosity, game attendees participated, hurling a sea of teddy bear toys onto the court. The sight was nothing short of magical, each toy symbolizing hope and joy for the children and families benefiting from The Salvation Army's Angel Tree initiative.
Then came the halftime showstopper - the teddy bear toss. In a spectacular display of generosity, game attendees participated, hurling a sea of teddy bear toys onto the court. The sight was nothing short of magical, each toy symbolizing hope and joy for the children and families benefiting from The Salvation Army's Angel Tree initiative.
Adding to the festivities, Captain Kettle, The Salvation Army's mascot, shared a delightful moment with SLU's mascot, The Billiken. This friendly interaction between the two mascots symbolized the unity and shared goals of the two organizations.
During the current season, The Salvation Army's presence has been a beacon of hope outside Chaifetz Arena. Bell ringers, including Christy Connoyer, the SLU Billikens Softball Head Coach, and a two-decade bell ringer, warmly greeted SLU Billikens fans, while collecting donations at the iconic red kettles.
The game itself was a nail-biter, with SLU Billikens claiming victory with a thrilling 75–74 win over Louisiana Tech. But beyond the scores and sporting triumphs, the evening was a celebration of something much more significant - the spirit of giving, community, and togetherness.
As the crowd dispersed, the echo of cheers and the warmth of shared goodwill lingered in the air. The successful partnership between The Salvation Army and SLU Billikens not only provided an evening of entertainment but also sparked a wave of kindness that will ripple through the local community for a long time to come.
The Salvation Army thanks our partners and friends at SLU for our partnership and for their generous support of the Tree of Lights campaign!
