As they arrived for the 11th annual Crossover Mission Gala, guests were escorted by young men and women into the Center for Academics and Excellence where they reflected on the more than 700 young adults whose lives have been positively impacted through Crossover’s programs in athletics, academics, and life skills development.
“I want to thank you all for your continued and generous support of Crossover,” said Brad Lorimier, board chairman, welcoming everyone as they sat for dinner. “Our student athletes have become leaders among their peers, in their schools and on the court.”
Antoine Jennings Jr. (AJ) and Louis DeSchouwer, the “founding sons” of Crossover Mission co-founders Antoine Jennings, director of operations and Cathy DeSchouwer, executive director, next took turns, passing the ball so to speak as they spoke about the nonprofit.
In 2025, Crossover assisted nearly 150 student athletes age 11 to 25 in their various programs, 76 percent earned a B or higher GPA, and 99 percent remained free of the juvenile justice system.
All juniors and sophomores who completed SAT preps improved their scores, and 10 were aided in undergraduate college studies with scholarships, logistics and college prep. Crossover also coached and managed five travel basketball teams, and engaged almost 50 student athletes at the competitive level.
AJ said one of his father’s favorite drills was the three-man weave, and although he and Louis are now on different paths, the weave of their mission ties them together.
“The younger kids look at us like we’re the legends. Crossover hasn’t just taught us how to weave; it’s taught us how to weave together,” said AJ.
“But the three-man weave only works when the third person steps in. That’s where you all come in. You’re not just giving a donation, you’re becoming part of a win, and the future of this community,” said Louis.
The Crossover Mission Dribble Team performed next, staying in sync while giving their own impressive weaving demonstration.
“It’s truly a blessing to watch those Dribble kids. I don’t think people really understand what those kids have to commit to,” said Antoine Jennings, commenting on their many hours of afterschool and weekend practice.
“Contrary to what many people believe, Black and white people have been working together for a very long time. We have not been as divided as we think, and that’s why we’re here today. It starts in this room, in this facility, but the love and care beyond these walls and others will be drawn to you and through you. Therefore, I want to thank you all for your continued and generous support of Crossover,” said Jennings.
Jennings also offered high praise to all the parents for allowing them to work with their children.
Cathy DeSchouwer said the fundraiser supported their daily operations, including academics, tutoring, sports training, competitive basketball, healthy kids, independent study, career readiness, mentoring and intervention programs.
Before presenting the second annual Spark Award, DeSchouwer said it was inspired by last year’s inaugural recipient, Mary Beth Penrose, to honor those who “create opportunities and inspire others to dream bigger.”
This year’s recipient was Bob Parsons, whose 2014 gift of $10,000 helped launch the formation of Crossover and his leadership never wavered. He championed the search for a permanent home, negotiated the purchase of the facility and contributed generously to it.
“The Crossover Center stands as a lengthy tribute to Bob’s faith, persistence, and unwavering belief in supporting the community’s needs,” said DeSchouwer.
“I have had 11 years seeing these young people develop in ways that were unimaginable to me when I first got here,” said Parsons in appreciation for the award.
Two young men gave moving testimonials about their individual transformations.
Euton Morris has cerebral palsy and said dribbling, running and jumping seemed impossible.
“But then came Coach Antoine. Let me tell you, he was not going to let me quit. For three years, he worked with me consistently,” said Morris. He now has full use of his left arm, can run the court, and has gone from being a C student to earning As and Bs.
“My goal, my legacy, is to be an example for other kids with disabilities. I want them to see me and know that they can do anything that they set their mind to. To all the supporters in this room tonight, thank you for believing in kids like me. You’re not just changing lives, you’re shaping futures,” said Morris.
Phanuel (PJ) Laurent had struggled academically, physically and mentally until Crossover’s Independent Study program changed his life and his GPA went from a .7 to a 3.8.
He now plays full basketball games and, after discovering a passion for cooking, enrolled in a culinary program at Treasure Coast Technical College.
“For the first time, I’m excited for the future. Thank you for being a part of my journey and for helping create more stories of hope and inspiration,” said Laurent.
For more information, visit CrossoverMission.org.
Photos by Joshua Kodis
