1V1 with Ballin’ 4 Peace: Haron Hargrave



HARON HARGRAVE

HARON "H2O" HARGRAVE

FOUNDER @ BALLIN' 4 PEACE

Haron Hargrave - Ballin' 4 Peace

Haron Hargrave: Founder of Ballin' 4 Peace

Spend only a matter of minutes with Haron Hargrave, and it’s clear that his genuine passion for people, community growth, spreading peace through sports, and building relationships is infectious.

For the Queens native, Campus Magnet grad, and former standout guard at Sacramento State University, providing support and services to students, teachers, community leaders, and those in need is a lifelong mission. In the past year alone, Haron and his 501(c)3 nonprofit, Ballin’ 4 Peace, have delivered programming, outreach, and events that foster unity. Notable initiatives include the 14th Annual Queensweek Basketball Festival, the 8th Annual Celebrity Charity Basketball Game, and the inaugural NYC Elite 32 Winter Classic for youth basketball at Springfield Gardens High School.

1V1 with Haron Hargrave

In this “1V1” series by Ballin’ 4 Peace, we discuss his influences, the importance of making a positive impact, the challenges of running a nonprofit, and future initiatives for Ballin’ 4 Peace in 2024.

Q: Could you share a few words about your mother and the inspiration she provided?

"My mother, Rhonda T. Hargrave, was my everything. She inspired me in every aspect of life—from basketball to teaching to community service. I honor her through my work with Ballin’ 4 Peace."

Q: What advice has your father, Harold, given you about leading in the community?

"My father is my biggest motivator. At 80 years old, he continues to inspire me with his strength and discipline. His example keeps me driven to make an impact."

Challenges and Growth

Q: What do you wish you’d known before starting Ballin’ 4 Peace?

"Fundraising is challenging. I’ve learned that perseverance is key, even when facing setbacks. I keep working to make Ballin’ 4 Peace impactful."

Q: How do you overcome these challenges?

By focusing on self-funding initiatives and creating outreach programs, we strive to serve youth, schools, and communities across NYC and beyond.

Looking Ahead

Q: What’s next for Ballin’ 4 Peace?

We’re excited to host the second NYC Elite 32 Winter Classic at Springfield Gardens, offering scholarships and uniting families over the holidays—carrying forward the legacy of my mother, who taught here for over 25 years.

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Since 20014, Ballin’ 4 Peace has hosted charity sports events committed to raising awareness about acts of violence and establishing peace through sports within New York City and beyond. From the annual Ballin’ 4 Peace celebrity basketball game, to our flag football and “Back to School” supplies drive with the NYPD, to the “Battle of the Boroughs” bowling party benefiting local charities in New York, our outreach efforts have been made possible thanks to your generous donations and support. Your contribution can make a life-altering difference as Ballin’4 Peace continues to strive for peace in our communities.




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