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Free Throw Event At USF To Help AIDS Orphans

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TBO.com

Published: November 6, 2008

TAMPA -- Hundreds are expected to gather at 4 p.m. today at the USF Recreation Center to shoot basketball free throws in an effort to help children orphaned by AIDS.

The event is called Hoops of Hope. It's part of a national movement of the same name started by a boy who felt compelled to do something to help thousands of orphan children in Africa.

In the program's first year four years ago, Austin Gutwein, now 14, shot 2,057 free throws on World AIDS Day. The number represents the number of children worldwide who are orphaned daily from parents who die of AIDS. Austin was just 10 then.

He has traveled the country since, sparking others to do the same.

Gutwein's efforts with Hoops of Hope have raised money to build schools, medical clinics and counseling centers in Africa. This year, the program wants to raise money for another clinic.

Participants who registered in advance raised money for the cause through personal fundraising pages. People who want to participate but haven't yet signed up can register at the door. There will be a money box on site.

The event at the University of South Florida will be held from 4 to 10 p.m. The Recreation Center is near the Sun Dome. Gutwein will speak from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

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