NBA All-Star Makes Community a Part of His Game Plan

Thursday, 06 September 2012 17:27 Written by  Iya Bakare

NBA world champion Dwyane Wade recently returned to his hometown to fulfill his promise of giving back to the community as he hosted his fifth annual Wade’s World Weekend for his philanthropy Wade’s World Foundation. For four days, the Chicago native held a star-studded fundraising event which included a benefit dinner, a bowling outing, education programs, in addition to both a youth talent show and gospel showcase. The All-Star basketball player included nightlife festivities throughout the weekend.

Rap superstar Nelly hosted the kick-off festivities Thursday night. Other special guests who showed their support that weekend included actress Tika Sumpter (Sparkle, The Game, Gossip Girl), singer Michelle Williams (Destiny’s Child and The Color Purple), comedian Lil Rel, actor Jacob Latimore and actress Coco Jones (of Disney’s Let it Shine) and Chicago personality Billy Dec.

“I’m out here to support my man D. Wade and Wade’s World Foundation,” Nelly comments. “D. Wade is doing a great job with the foundation. I had a great time hosting the kick-off celebration and connecting with my Chicago fans. The energy was crazy. The Midwest was definitely in the building!”

“I love what Dwyane has done, as far as giving back to the community with materials he provides for the children and what he has done with his philanthropy,” Tika adds. “I can’t help but to support that.”

With stars in his eyes, hundreds of fans chanting his name and a champion ring to add to his resume, Dwyane says he doesn’t lose focus on what’s important.

“It’s always great to be back home and being around all of this is a part of the territory,” he says at the kick-off celebration. “Tonight we’re having a good time, but we have to remember we’re here for a cause and that’s what it’s all about – giving back to the community and to the kids.”

 


For more information on Wade’s World Foundation, visit www.wadesworldfoundation.org.

 

Images courtesy of Greg Davis for Photos by Greg (top left); Jeff Schaer Photography (right) and Nico Pagan(bottom left)

 

Iya Bakare

Iya Bakare

Iya Bakare, GMO's managing editor, earned both her Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees in print journalism. She earned her B.A. from Delta State University with a minor in English and graduated with a M.A. degree from Columbia College Chicago. In her spare time, the Chicago native continues to freelance and ponder ways to both inform and improve her community one story at a time.

She can be contacted at Iya@glossmagazineonline.com
Follow her on Twitter: @ibakare

Website: www.iyabakare.com