Saleem Ali Scholarship Foundation

Saleem Ali credits his childhood as the inspiration for his community work.

As a student at PS 67, he became very intrigued with the history of Fort Greene, being born and raised in Fort Greene Projects. Sands Junior High School (now Susan McKinney) is where he first fell in love with basketball, which led to his revelation to start his own youth program.

A decade later, in 1977, his dream became a reality when Saleem started a summer basketball tournament. During this time, there were no other youth activities, and the neighborhood was struggling through the drug epidemic. His goal was to keep kids off the streets and to build their character through basketball. Saleem dedicated much of his time as well as his own money to his dream, which he believed was a small sacrifice for the greater good. He later began recruiting young men in the community to assist him with coaching. He began fundraising and then local businesses began to offer donations after seeing the difference that the youth program was making in the community. His eagerness for change eventually birthed the Fort Greene Recreation on the Commodore Barry Park playground.

Saleem dedicated over 30 years to the improvement of Fort Greene and wore many hats while doing so. He was a family man, Playground Associate, Sergeant at Arms for the Ingersoll Executive Board and Tenant Patrol Supervisor for NYCHA. Saleem was awarded the title of Park Warden of Commodore Barry Pack in 2003, in addition, he organized the annual Fort Greene Farragut Old Timers Day, all while continuing to grow his youth program.

In his lifespan, he coached and mentored multiple generations of families, coaching fathers and later coaching their sons. This has inspired many in the community to continue what he has started.

Today and in the foreseeable years to come, we will continue to partner with the children of Saleem Ali. To honor him, to showcase his love, commitment and contribution to the Fort Greene community and its youth. The mission for The Saleem Ali Scholarship Foundation is to carry out Saleem’s dream and continue pouring into the youth of the neighborhoods of Fort Greene/ Farrugut communities of Brooklyn, NY.

We are hopeful that this scholarship will provide financial assistance to a rising Fort Greene youth who has shown exemplary character and exceptional work ethic; or a Fort Greene resident who’s suffered through addiction /homelessness. And has overcome their circumstances and now striving for a better future.Our goal is clear yet impactful. We aim to award scholarships to 1-2 deserving students each year, providing the financial assistance they need to further their education. Whether it’s for tuition, books, or necessary supplies, your support will make a significant difference. We’re working to raise $5,000 to make this vision a reality. Each scholarship will offer $2,500 per student, ensuring they have the resources to thrive. But we can’t achieve this without your assistance.

In memory of Saleem, who was and will always be highly honored in his forever home, Fort Greene Brooklyn.

Donate By Mail

Please make checks payable to “Brooklyn Org” – note Saleem Ali Scholarship Foundation in the memo section of the check. Mail checks to:

Brooklyn Org / Saleem Ali Scholarship Foundation
Attn: Donor Services
80 Hanson Place, 5th Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11217

Additional Ways to Give

Please contact Donor Services at 718.480.7500 or email donorservices@brooklyn.org to discuss alternative methods of giving.