Home Court Advantage

In a place where safety comes first, joy took center court.

At Cincinnati’s new YWCA Domestic Violence Shelter, the sound of bouncing basketballs and children’s laughter brought joy to a place built for healing, as the organization officially opened the Pat and Jackie Reau Basketball Court – a safe space for kids to play, connect and simply be kids again.

“Basketball gave me a foundation for success in life, it was my safe place, my outlet, and my teacher in many things in life,” said Jackie Reau, YWCA’s Mission Forward co-chair. “The Pat & Jackie Reau Court represents that same sense of refuge and hope for families at the YWCA. My support for this mission is unwavering, and I hope every child who steps onto this court feels strong, seen, and ready to dream again.”

To celebrate the court’s opening, Xavier University’s women’s basketball team stopped by for a special visit and mini-clinic, running drills, shooting hoops and sharing smiles with young residents. Every child left with new memories, new skills - and a little Xavier swag to remember the day.

The court, complete with brand-new basketballs donated by Reau, is a reminder of hope, and the power of community. It’s a tool to teach children at the shelter, that even after life’s toughest losses, there’s always a chance to rebound.