AMBASSADORS OF GOODWILL®

C.H.E.E.R. For Character Program

For the past four years, the Harlem Globetrotters have brought “C.H.E.E.R.” to hundreds of thousands of elementary school students across North America.  After a successful debut season to their “C.H.E.E.R. For Character” program in 2004, the Globetrotters continue to extol the benefits of character development and leading a healthy, active lifestyle to rave reviews by teachers, administrators and students.

The "Ambassadors of Goodwill" have visited nearly 1,000 schools, presenting their “C.H.E.E.R. for Character” program to hundreds of thousands of students.  The program was designed with assistance from the U.S. Department of Education, the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, and state educators.  While there are several different character traits emphasized by various programs across the country, the Globetrotters' program focuses on Cooperation, Healthy Mind & Body, Effort, Enthusiasm, and Responsibility, using the acronym “C.H.E.E.R.”

The program targets elementary school students and involves Globetrotter players incorporating their signature ball handling skills with a “C.H.E.E.R.” basketball.  The basketball includes each of the character traits printed on the outside of the ball and is used as a key tool during the presentation to each school.  Globetrotter players encourage students to match their actions with those five character traits in their experiences with parents, teachers and one another. 

Character education involves getting kids to care about school and each other in order to better prepare the students for the challenges they will soon face as young adults.  Combining the important messages of the program with student participation and signature Harlem Globetrotter ball handling and humor gives students a well-balanced program that informs and entertains. 

Students are also encouraged to take The President's Challenge and earn their Active Lifestyle patch by meeting a daily activity goal of 60 minutes a day, at least five days a week, for a total of six weeks.  The personal activity log makes it fun and easy to track the time spent on activities.

The Globetrotters will continue the “C.H.E.E.R.” program as part of their 2008 “Magic As Ever” North American Tour, celebrating the team’s 82nd Anniversary.  School visits will take place from approximately November 2007 to April 2008.  Due to tour logistics, school visits can only take place in markets the Globetrotters will play in during the North American Tour.  To request a “C.H.E.E.R.” presentation, please fax the Harlem Globetrotters Public Relations Department, on school letterhead, at 602-258-5925.