Hampden District Attorney’s Office to Host 10th Annual Hoop Up Springfield at American International College

April 7, 2026 – Springfield, Massachusetts – The Hampden District Attorney’s Office will host the 10th Annual Hoop Up Springfield Job Fair & Basketball Tournament on Monday, April 20, 2026, at American International College (AIC). The free event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is open to youth ages 11 to 18.

Hoop Up Springfield is a day-long event focused on connecting young people with summer job opportunities, educational resources, and positive activities, while also providing a safe and welcoming environment for youth from across Hampden County.

Participants will have the opportunity to apply for summer jobs, tour the AIC campus and sports complex, participate in skills and drills led by AIC student athletes, take part in a cheerleading clinic, and compete in a 3-on-3 basketball tournament. Breakfast and lunch will be provided for registered participants.

Employers currently scheduled to participate in the job fair include Pho Saigon, YMCA of Greater Springfield, Performance Foodservice, Westaff, Valley Opportunity Council, New North Citizens Council, Big Y Foods, New England Public Media, Eastern States Exposition, the United States Army, Springfield Police Cadet Program, the Springfield Boys & Girls Club, Tech Foundry, City of Springfield Department Parks, Buildings and Recreation Management, and Six Flags New England. Additional employers may be added as the event approaches. Employers interested in participating in the Hoop Up Springfield job fair are encouraged to contact Hampden District Attorney’s Office Deputy Director of Community Safety & Outreach Gina Anselmo at gina.anselmo@mass.gov.

District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni said the event is designed to give young people opportunities, exposure, and positive experiences that can help shape their future.

“This event brings a lot of different parts of the community together for our young people. They get the chance to play, meet employers, see a college campus, and spend the day in a positive environment. We are grateful to American International College and all of the employers who are giving their time and resources to support the youth in our community,” Gulluni said.

American International College President Nicole Cestero said the college is proud to continue its partnership with the Hampden District Attorney’s Office.

“We are honored to partner with DA Gulluni’s office to provide a safe, welcoming space where youth can enjoy the tournament, explore summer job opportunities, and begin to imagine themselves as students at a college like AIC. It’s also rewarding for our student athletes who appreciate the chance to contribute to this impactful community event.”

Hoop Up Springfield is free for registered participants. For more information, including registration and event schedule details, go to the Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BSMKgwX4y/, or contact the Community Safety and Outreach Unit at gina.anselmo@mass.gov.

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