Nationwide — Each month, The NBA rewards its players across the league with the Community Assist Award. This honor recognizes players for their generosity and determination to make their communities a better place. Professional athletes such as LeBron James and Kevin Durant have been inspiring others to give back to their community, whether it be through charitable donations or volunteering efforts.
LeBron James
2018 was a huge year for LeBron James. He opened the I PROMISE School in Northeast Ohio, enrolling more than 240 students. The school provides specialized resources and support to children and their families. On top of successful launching his school, James also donated thousands of toys to children within the Akron Public School system. He also visited the Cleveland Clinic Children’s rehabilitation center during the holidays.
Damian Lillard
The Portland Trail Blazers guard launched the RESPECT program six years ago to improve the behavior of young students throughout greater Portland area. The program encourages young students to show up, work hard, and be kind to others. RESPECT has partnered with another three Portland-Area High Schools for the 2018-19 school year.
Dwayne Wade
Dwayne Wade was another NBA superstar who made a difference in the lives around him. He supported the Parkland community after the tragic school shooting in February of 2018 in a variety of ways. From a surprise visit for students attending MSDHS to his sponsored art exhibit titled the “Parkland 17” honoring the 17 lives lost, Wade showed the world that professional athletes do more than just dribble. Wade and his wife Gabrielle Union also donated $200,000 to March for Our Lives, the student-led demonstration supporting gun control which took place last spring.
Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant continues to be one of the most charitable NBA players in the league, donating more than $13 million to various organizations during the 2017-18 season. Durant has partnered with organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, Make-A-Wish, and the American Red Cross. He also has his own charity, the Kevin Durant Charity Foundation; its mission is to enrich the lives of at-risk youth through education, athletics, and social programs.
Khris Middleton
Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton recently hosted the first annual 12 Days of Khrismas over the holiday season. During the 12 days of Khrismas, Middleton performed various generous acts. He surprised single mothers with a full-service spa day, prompted classroom makeovers for teachers, and hosted a private screening of The Grinch for youth in the Milwaukee area.