Celebrating 10 Years of Wade’s World Foundation!

Congratulations are certainly in order to Mr. Dwayne Wade; not only did he help lead his team the Miami Heat to their 2nd Chamionship title in just six years, he also released his first book ‘A Father First,’ and his foundation, Wade’s World is celebrating 10 years of giving back! I had the pleasure of attending Mr. Wade’s annual All-star luncheon in Orlando last year and let me be the first to say that this charity is so close to his heart, it’s evident in not only his words but also his actions. Since it’s inception, the foundation whose mission is to provide support to various educational, health and family service programs, in particular those that benefit underserved communities

Dwyane Wade  says he was inspired to start the Wade’s World Foundation at the mere age of 7 years old. He recalls watching a segment of a local Chicago news station where celebrities were captured visiting school children. The featured public school children were mesmerized by the actuality that someone of such great stature would think so highly of them to come and visit. As the celebrity stooped to their levels to greet, hug, and high five the children, their eyes gleamed with excitement and their smiles lit up the room.

Dwyane watched that news segment in awe. He wondered why no one had come to visit his neighborhood. Why hadn’t anyone come to his school to remind him or the other children that they too could change the world and achieve the impossible? He wanted to experience the same emotions and hear the same words that the children in the new segment did. That day, Dwyane decided that if he ever “made it” he would return to his community, motivate the children/youth and give back to local organizations.

Well it is safe to say that , Dwyane has “made it” and has never forgotten that news segment he watched over 23 years ago.

Founded in 2003, Wade’s World Foundation stands on the shoulders of its’ central purpose of promoting the education of children/ youth and its’ three focus initiatives of literacy, health and fatherhood. Understanding that his life is bigger than basketball, Dwyane is a firm believer and supporter of the foundation’s motto “Every Child Deserves a Shot.” By primarily servicing the at-risk communities of Chicago, Milwaukee, and the South Florida region, Wade’s World Foundation and partnering sponsors are dedicated to providing opportunities that enable children to overcome challenges, excel academically, and reach their maximum potential.

2012 was an amazing year for Wade’s World; hosting among many other events and initiatives the “Work Hard, Play Hard” rally at Tangelo Park Elementary  in Orlando, FL to reward the students and staff for their academic achievements and remind them of the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. Dwyane also presented Tangelo Park Community Program with $100,000 to assist with fulfilling the educational needs and progression of its’ students. In August he hosted his 5th Annual W3 Weekend in his hometown of Chicago, IL And ending the year how it started with Giving Back!  Dwyane surprised 10 Miami families with a $1,000 shopping spree at Target. For the 5th Year Wade’s World Foundation partnered with Neighbors for Neighbors and local Miami churches to select well deserving families that were in need this past holiday season. Well done  Mr. Wade, thank you for serving and here’s to 10 more years of Wade’s World Foundation!
Check out more of the 2012 Wade’s World highlights here! Once again, congratulation to Dwayne Wade and all the staff and volunteers of Wade’s World!