Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James might have been busy this past summer deciding where his next stop would be after a brilliant four-year run with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
That didn’t stop the planet’s best player from making sure to give back to the community that raised him. Specifically, James opened up the I PROMISE school in Akron to help children less fortunate get a great education.
The school itself is something to behold. Having grown up in that area of Ohio, LeBron knows full well how much of a disadvantage children are at from an educational standpoint. And boy, did he do something about this.
For this and a whole lot more, James was awarded the Offseason NBA Cares Community Assist Award.
“Before the Lakers’ home game against the Denver Nuggets tonight (10:30 p.m. ET, TNT), NBA President of Social Responsibility and Player Programs Kathy Behrens will present the award to James during an oncourt ceremony,” the league said in a statement. “In addition, Kaiser Permanente and the NBA will donate $10,000 on James’ behalf to the LeBron James Family Foundation.”
By now it’s well known that Mr. James and other top NBA players continue to give back to the community in a big way. While involved in the political differences of the day, the NBA’s best player has also made sure to use his star power to do well within the community. The I PROMISE school being the latest example. For James, it’s also one of the greatest accomplishments of his life.
“Opening the I PROMISE School is one of the best things I’ve ever been a part of because I know how important those resources are to these kids and families in Akron,” said James. “To be able to create a place where they’re excited about going to school and where they feel safe and supported – that changes everything for them. And for my Foundation, this is just the beginning for the I PROMISE School. We’re still building and will continue to do everything we can to help these families with the challenges they face every day.”
It’s no small thing to see the NBA’s top players give back in this manner. Good for you, Mr. James. It’s an award well deserved.