“I was inspired to start my own foundation because as a little kid I remember looking into my community and seeing the need for mentors and role models."
DEC- JAN 2013/14
As well as his father, another source of inspiration growing up was fellow Chicagoan Michael Jordan. “His will to win and how he consistently broke records and helped lead his team to championships is something that, still to this day, inspires and motivates me,” says Wade.
Another thing that Wade is immensely proud of is the Wade‘s World Foundation, which he started in 2003 to give back to the community. What motivated him to start his own foundation? “I was inspired to start my own foundation because as a little kid I remember looking into my community and seeing the need for mentors and role models. I noticed the trend of no one really coming back to us to motivate us and inspire us, to say "You can do whatever you put your mind to do." So, I always told myself that if I was ever put in a position to give back, that I would. Starting the Wade's World Foundation was that way to give back and be a role model to those on the South Side of Chicago and in other underserved areas.”
What has been his most meaningful moment as a philanthropist? “As a philanthropist, every day and moment is meaningful,” he says. “With each and every event we host or program we put in place-whether it's a concert we put on at a local park or a talent showcase, we help kids get inspired and give them the opportunity to pursue their dreams. With the support of my family, having faith in God and believing in myself, I was able to live out a dream and I want to encourage others to do the same.”
Wade is that rare breed of basketball player who has learned the valuable lesson that helping others is the one of best ways to heal yourself