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CHARLOTTE – Supporters at one Charlotte-Mecklenburg elementary school are keeping a popular mentoring program alive.

J.H. Gunn and other elementary schools are no longer a part of the “Right Moves For Youth” program, which provides mentoring and outreach programs.

But just because the program's name and funding went away from some schools, it is staying afloat and thriving at J.H. Gunn.

Every Friday, when he hits the court, J.H. Gunn third-grader Calik Thomas is not only playing the game of basketball, he's getting more equipped for the game of life.

For years, students at J.H. Gunn and other Charlotte-Mecklenburg elementary schools had organized basketball and other activities through the student mentoring “Right Moves For Youth” program.

But that changed last spring, when the program's board changed direction to cater only to the district's older students.

"CMS focused on all their attention from 6th to 12th graders, so we decided to do something here at the elementary school,” said Darryl Sturdivant, CMS truancy officer at J.H. Gunn.

Instead of shutting down altogether, J.H. Gunn Elementary played on, keeping their commitment to positive student influences, thanks to volunteers of staff, parents, and mentors.

"It can work without the funds, if you do have the dedicated volunteers like we have here at J.H. Gunn,” said Sturdivant.

And like an underdog team, J.H. Gunn leaders are hoping to inspire other elementary schools to keep similar programs alive.

"We want to teach the kids that if they are successful right now, they can take those successes and continue to be great,” said Patrick Narcisse, school social worker.

Calik's mother agrees that keeping the former “Right Moves For Youth” program intact has made her child a more well-rounded person. In order to participate, Calik, and everyone else, must maintain good grades and behavior.

"It's teaching them responsibility, and it's teaching them how to work together to make something happen,” said Avonda Wilson.

Thanks to dedicated supporters, the games – and life lessons – are expected to go on at J.H. Gunn this year and more ahead.