Former NBA world champion and Los Angeles Laker, Clay Johnson, established The Clay Johnson Foundation in 2004. Clay is from the greater Kansas City, Missouri, metropolitan area. Through dedication, perseverance, patience, and a lot of hard work, Clay rose above the countless obstacles that can plague “at risk” youth in inner city communities. Since retiring from basketball, Clay has become very active in mentoring and counseling youth in the Kansas City area and throughout the country. It has become Clay’s passion to see youth progress and excel in various areas of their lives, which is the driving force behind the Clay Johnson Foundation.
The Clay Johnson Foundation employs a concept entitled “Getting Back to Basics,” in which we simply dig deep into our own childhood and remember what made us feel loved and empowered. Through these experiences, we are able to provide youth the tools to build a strong will and motivation toward success, while enhancing them with positive thoughts and experiences.
In the Kansas City metro area? Here’s your chance to support Clay Johnson, but most importantly youth!
The foundation has partnered with the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) and the 21st Century Community Learning Centers’ Before and After-school Program. The foundation will mentor area youth on life skills during after-school programs one night a week, in addition to donating 200 free tickets to 21st Century students for a celebrity basketball game that will be held Saturday, Sept. 24.
For every ticket sold part of the proceeds will be donated for the students of the 21st Century before and after-school school program. Contact drogers@kcmsd.net or visit www.clayjohnsonfoundation.com for details. Tickets can be purchased until Wednesday, Sept. 21.
Kansas City Magic 2011 Events:
Friday, September 23rd
“A Magical Evening with Clay Johnson and Celebrity Friends”
VIP Reception (Little Theater) 6-7pm
This cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception is the perfect time to meet and have photo opportunities with Clay Johnson and celebrity friends.
Fundraiser and Fashion Show (Little Theater) 7-9pm
Hosted by the Department of Health and Human Services, along with Lincoln University Cooperative Extension, this elegant evening of Red will display clothing lines that accents the color red to reflect the healthy heart. This theme celebrates the Clay Johnson Foundation’s support of the Heart Truth Campaign.
Saturday, September 24th
“A day of Health, Fitness, and Entertainment with Clay Johnson and Celebrity Friends”
Dedicated Dads (Penn Valley) 8-11:30am
Hosted by Lincoln University Cooperative Extension and the National Center for Fathering, this event will feature seminars and special guest speakers focusing on uplifting dads and providing them tools in becoming productive and supportive fathers.
Youth Basketball Clinic (Penn Valley) 8-11:30am
A Free clinic conducted by Clay Johnson and a few of his fellow former NBA friends. The youth must be accompanied by their father figure. At the closing of the clinic, the fathers will join the kids in the gym to hear a motivational speaker. It’s truly a moment that will stay in the children’s memory forever.
Health Fair (Penn Valley) 8am-2pm
Over 60 health and fitness professionals will offer screening and information about dozens of health concerns facing our community. The event is coordinated by the Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center. Guests can get free glaucoma, diabetes and HIV tests and, as well as ask important important health related questions of participating professionals. A full day of family fun will be offered with games, face painting, inflatable equipment and celebrity photo ops and autographs.
Celebrity Basketball Game (Municipal Auditorium) 5pm
Hosted by The Entertainment League (E League), this electrifying game will include some of Hollywood’s hottest stars from the movie and entertainment industry. Each year the list of players get bigger and better. Such names as Dean Cain, “Superman”, Flex Alexander, Frankie Muniz from Malcolm in the Middle, R&B singer Tank, just to name a few. The game is filled with fun and excitement for the entire family. This celebrates the Clay Johnson Foundation’s support of the Go Red-HIV Prevention Program, Heart Truth Red Dress Campaign, Heart Disease Awareness, and launching the Men’s Heart-Armour Red Vest Project.
