The $3 million is part of the NBA’s 10-year, $300 million commitment to the Black community and will be used to help firms assist and create employment as well as assist in career advancement for Black people.
The NBA has made its mission to drive economic empowerment for underprivileged Black communities through employment and career advancement. It is essential to the mobility and prosperity of future generations.
As part of its $300 million commitment to assist underserved areas, the league selected nine organizations including the New York-based New Heights Youth, City Year, Road To Hire, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami and Memphis-based CodeCrew.
Last year, the NBA and its players union collaborated to create the NBA Foundation, which promises to help Black people over the next 10 years. All 30 NBA teams will unite to commit $30 million annually over the next decade, as the league wants to improve economic and income inequality.
Pro sports leagues upped their interest immensely in helping Black communities in 2020 after high-profile killings involving police made the headlines, including the death of George Floyd. As we speak, the trial of the officer who killed him in May is underway in the “Twin Cities.”
The NBA made its first installment of grants last December designed to assist in education, and employment opportunities. Organizations including the Marcus Graham Project, Operation DREAM, and Management Leadership for Tomorrow were selected to receive the funds.
Phoenix Suns co-owner Jahm Najafi added a $10 million donation to the foundation last month. The money is in addition to the $10 million the Suns originally pledged. Najafi is CEO of Arizona-based venture capital firm Najafi Companies.
To learn more about the NBA Foundation or apply for a grant, please visit www.nbafoundation.com.
