By Irina Perry
On Thursday, January 15, 2026, the Columbus, Ohio-based David Tolani Foundation (DTF) was formally recognized for its continued commitment and contributions to Tree of Life Schools during halftime of the Varsity Boys basketball game between Tree of Life and Genoa Christian.
The recognition took place at Tree of Life Schools, Northridge Road in Columbus, in front of students, families, faculty, and community supporters. During the halftime ceremony, school leadership honored the David Tolani Foundation for its positive impact on Tree of Life students and the broader school community.
David Tolani Foundation organizes an annual event that is held for one-week during the Summer where young basketball enthusiasts from grades K-8 are trained under the guidance of professionally trained basketball coaches.
Participants are given free branded shoes, Mides. Mides is a brand name for the basketball shoes donated to children who have showcased their love for Basketball and athletic.
The foundation has been instrumental in supporting student development and strengthening educational opportunities at Tree of Life Schools. Its contributions reflect a dedication to empowering youth, fostering leadership, and reinforcing values that extend beyond the classroom.
The halftime acknowledgment was met with enthusiastic applause, highlighting the appreciation shared by the Tree of Life community for the foundation’s ongoing partnership and generosity. The recognition underscored the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and community-based organizations in creating meaningful and lasting opportunities for students.
The Varsity Boys matchup against Genoa Christian provided an energetic and celebratory setting for the honour, emphasizing teamwork, perseverance, and service—principles that align with both Tree of Life Schools’ mission and the work of the David Tolani Foundation.
Tree of Life Schools has partnered with the foundation since 2018 to carry out the basketball camps annually and we are grateful for the support of the entire leadership, staff, coaches and volunteers that has made this happen annually.
DTF was founded in remembrance of David Tolani, an ardent lover of basketball, who passed away at age six in 2016. His life and legacy continue to inspire the Foundation’s work, guided by its mission and vision, a poignant reminder that life is not how long, but how well.
David’s passion for the game of basketball was unreal, and his favorite player was Kyrie Irving. He wanted to demonstrate his God-given skill in the NBA like his basketball hero. Much more than that, he wanted to spread God’s love through basketball. Since David could not realize that dream, the foundation organizes Summer Camps to honor this passion.
These annual events are a place for kids to improve their basketball skills in a fun environment with great coaches. Polaris Christian Academy hosted the first and second Annual David Tolani Basketball camps. Children of any skill level entering 2nd-8th grade participated.
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