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JUNEAU - Utah Jazz forward and Juneau-Douglas High School alum Carlos Boozer has donated 60 scholarships to his basketball camp through United Way of Southeast Alaska in order to encourage kids to learn about the game of basketball, as well as building teamwork and healthy exercise.

The fee of $185 is being waived for 60 children between the ages of 7-17 years that are economically disadvantaged. Boozer wants all kids that want to attend to be able to.

The camp will be held Aug. 2-6. Children who wish to be considered for scholarships should contact United Way of Southeast Alaska as soon as possible to get the application forms. The scholarships are need-based. Children from outlying communities also are encouraged to apply, but should make sure they have housing and transportation arrangements in Juneau for the duration of the camp.

Boozer hopes to have as many children as possible attend the camps in his old hometown. Both an application and release form need to be signed and sent to United Way of SE Alaska, PO Box 20249, Juneau AK 99802. (907) 463-5530 or fax (907) 463-4649 or e-mail to staff@unitedwayseak.org. The deadline for application is July 1.

Last year, local businesses also donated funds to increase the number of scholarships by 14, giving 64 Southeast children the opportunity to take advantage of the camp.

"Please make sure that you pass this information on to as many children as possible. It is quite an opportunity for local Southeast children to get this kind of special attention and instruction," said Brenda Hewitt, president of United Way of Southeast Alaska. "United Way encourages good healthy exercise for everyone, especially kids."

For more information contact: Brenda Hewitt, President of United Way of Southeast Alaska, by e-mailing bhewitt@unitedwayseak.org, or calling 463-5530.

United Way of Southeast Alaska is a locally operated nonprofit created to build strong communities in Southeast Alaska by supporting 38 health and social service agencies throughout the region.