Whats happening
in the Community
Community Outreach
The Cowlitz County Sasquatch are more than just a basketball team—they’ve made community outreach a core part of their identity. Their players and staff regularly visit local schools to run youth basketball clinics and mentorship sessions, emphasizing health, teamwork, and academic success. They partner with local nonprofits and organizations in Kelso and Longview to host charity events, fundraising nights during games, and community clean-up days. The team also recruits volunteers to support regional causes like youth art programs, rural education initiatives, and Cowlitz County 4‑H youth development. By embedding themselves in local events throughout the season, the Sasquatch aim to inspire fans off the court as much as they do on it—demonstrating that their roots in the community run just as deep as in the stands.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Youth development & basketball clinics
The Cowlitz County Sasquatch take youth development seriously — their basketball clinics are carefully designed to build both skills and confidence in local kids. Hosted regularly at community gyms across Cowlitz County, these sessions are led by team coaches and players who teach fundamentals like dribbling, passing, shooting, and defensive footwork. But it’s more than drills: they incorporate life lessons on respect, perseverance, teamwork, and healthy habits. Through their “Sasquatch Stars” camps, young athletes get individual feedback, participate in fun contests, and earn autographed gear and game tickets. Special clinics for underserved schools come with free equipment giveaways and mentorship hours where players speak about goal‑setting and school achievement. In combining high-quality basketball instruction with personal encouragement, the Sasquatch strive to empower the next generation on and off the court.
EDUCATION SUPPORT
SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS & EDUCATION SUPPORT
The Cowlitz County Sasquatch will build strong partnerships with local schools across Cowlitz County—working hand in hand with districts in Kelso, Longview, and surrounding areas to support student success. Through initiatives like the upcoming “Sasquatch Scholars” program, the team will provide grant-funded school supplies, reading materials, and technology resources to underserved classrooms. Players will regularly visit as guest speakers during assemblies and career days, sharing their own journeys and encouraging students to stay engaged in school and set long-term goals. Additionally, the team will collaborate with educators to develop after-school tutoring programs and academic incentive nights, where students can earn free game tickets and meet players by showing positive effort and attendance. By integrating basketball—and its lessons in discipline and teamwork—into educational support, the Sasquatch will demonstrate that excellence in the classroom is just as important as performance on the court.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
HEALTH & WELLNESS INITIATIVES
The Cowlitz County Sasquatch will launch a dynamic suite of health and wellness initiatives designed to uplift the entire community. Through “Wellness with the Sasquatch” clinics, team trainers and players will lead free sessions on nutrition basics, injury prevention, and stretching routines—tailored for local youth and families. They plan to host seasonal wellness fairs featuring health screenings, fitness challenges, and partnership booths with community health organizations. In addition, the team will collaborate with local parks and rec departments to promote active lifestyles through organized “Sasquatch Walks,” family fitness nights, and youth jogging clubs. By blending accessible programming with expert guidance, the Sasquatch will empower residents to build sustainable habits and stay physically and mentally strong—on and off the court.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT DAYS
The Cowlitz County Sasquatch will host dedicated Community Engagement Days throughout the season—special events where the team steps beyond the court to connect directly with residents across Kelso, Longview, and nearby neighborhoods. On these days, players and staff will participate in neighborhood gatherings, pop‑up basketball shoot‑arounds, and open‑air meet‑and‑greets at parks or community centers. The Sasquatch will partner with local nonprofits and service providers to offer free family games, face painting, food trucks, and mini-carnivals, all designed to foster fun and inclusivity. Each event will spotlight a local cause—whether supporting youth mental health, food security, or environmental cleanup—featuring donation drives, volunteer sign‑ups, and interactive educational booths. By bringing high‑energy engagement directly into communities, the Sasquatch aim to build lasting bonds and deliver positive impact, proving they’re more than just a team—they’re neighbors and champions of Cowlitz County.