The U.S. armed forces spent their Saturday playing basketball with kids from Brownsville.

They say their goal was to inspire the kids with a message of hard work and anti-violence during Gun Violence Awareness Month.

Organizers say the heat didn't stop the kids, ranging from 12 to 18 years old, from making the most of the day.

They say they hope the armed forces inspired the kids to work hard both inside and outside of school.

"Just to give them the knowledge they can achieve other things like go to college, really become successful and not have to become a product of their environment," says Marines Sgt. Everett Morgan. "I came from the streets. There's a lot more opportunity out there to really have a successful life."

Organizers say similar events will be held throughout the summer, as the armed forces are doing their part to inspire kids to invest in their futures.