Since 2016, Chantez Bryant founded the non-profit organization “Fun in The Park” here in Bedford Stuyvesant (Bed-Stuy). She created this organization in memory of the late coach Harry O (Harry Sprinkle) and his mentor the late Jocko (Gregory Jackson). She supported Coach Harry O’s potential as he taught the sport of basketball at Lafayette Playground where he spent most of his time coaching and being a role model for the sport.

The organization is composed of urban youths and adults who desire to engage in “free” activities such as basketball, vocational training and community service. Upon having the support of community coaches, official referees, volunteers, Greene Avenue Chefs and more. The organization strives for a platform of opportunities merited for the deserved.  

In addition to the “free” basketball tournaments at Lafayette Playground (Malcolm X Blvd. & Patchen Ave.), the non-profit group hosted a funded Referee camp, an annual outdoor Thanksgiving feast (at the Bed Stuy Garden, Malcolm X Blvd.), OSHA trainings (taught by demand in sequence), and their first annual community “New / Used but not Abused” outdoor Coat drive / clothes giveaway in 2021. 

Fun in the Park rises against adversity by spending tireless hours serving and empowering individuals of the Bedford Stuyvesant community. They enjoy the excitement they receive from all the individuals that win trophies at the basketball tournaments to the smiles of others who indulge in the Thanksgiving Feasts. They uphold the beliefs of unity, opportunity and prosperity, believing that no one in the community is left behind. By having faith, the Bed Stuy community will rise together with the assistance of” Fun in the Park” because; We are one! 

Fun in the Park mission is dedicated to the late Harry Sprinkle (coach HarryO) because the baton was picked-up from his basketball legacy and living conditions here in Bed-Stuy!

Special thanks to the “Fun in the Park” team for making the group a success!