LEWISTON – Local resident Jon Fortin has started local basketball league for residents of River Valley Village, formerly known as Tall Pines.

Fortin, 24, has donated 10 hours a week to hold practices and games for the players involved in the league. Practices are 5 p.m. tp 6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, with games on Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the River Valley Village court. Officer Craig Johnson has volunteered his time on Fridays to help referee all the games.

“These kids have shown so much improvement since the start of summer,” said Fortin. “These players have shown so much improvement not only on the court but outside the court. One player went as far as to come knock on my door just to say, ‘Thank you for what you’re doing for us.’ We have a few parents come and show their support every practice and game. If we can get more parents like them this basketball league could really excel.”

Several parents have donated their bottles and cans to the league for the purchase of equipment.

Fortin received support in launching the program from Tina McBride, resident service coordinator and workforce development coordinator of the Caleb Foundation.

“The kids in the community really appreciate this league,” Fortin said. “They are not only learning the game of basketball but also respect for one another including those of different culture and themselves.”

Although the league started out with only one basketball and a whistle, the Caleb Foundation has provided assistance with several fundraisers. One is a raffle for a chance to win a gift card to local restaurants. Tickets are one for $1 or three for $5. The drawing will be held October 1st.

Fundraisers have helped the league purchase several more basketballs and five-gallon water jugs.

Fortin hopes the league will grow enough to permit play against other apartment complexes or recreation leagues.