Kings and Queens Rise

Black youth often lack access to safe, supportive environments for recreation and mentorship—especially in the summertime. Neighborhoods affected by violence and systemic exclusion need intentional spaces for community building and positive engagement.

Kings and Queens Rise (KQR) is a co-ed youth sports and mentoring league engaging 4th to 11th graders from eight neighborhoods in intercommunity basketball games, cheer and mentoring activities.

It promotes sportsmanship, friendship and character-building. KQR was created in response to the killing of Stephon Clark and is held in partnership with the Sacramento Kings, Sacramento State University and My Brother’s Keeper Sacramento.

Child Abuse and Neglect

Impact

  • Since 2018, served over 400 youth annually across 24 teams
  • Fosters inter-neighborhood connections and provides a positive alternative to violence
  • Contributes to 88% reduction in deaths due to child abuse and neglect

Our Kings & Queens Rise Partners

Sacramento KingsBall Out AcademyCalifornia State University, SacramentoMy Brother's Keeper Sacramento