The HIES boys varsity basketball traveled to Gainesville, Ga., this week to kick off their season with an act of service. Mario Mays, head boys basketball coach, encourages the team to take on a service project every year in partnership with his nonprofit organization, Beyond the Bench. This year, the team visited Mays' hometown and blessed local educators by serving a Thanksgiving meal to the faculty and staff of Gainesville's New Holland Elementary, sponsored by HIES Basketball. 

"It'll help the guys understand serving in the community and giving back," Coach Mays said. "They jumped in and did their thing...I was very proud of them for taking the time to think about and serve others."

What a great way to kick off a season of giving. Way to go, Golden Bears!