Doing MU proud off the court too:
PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS GUARD WESLEY MATTHEWS
RECEIVES KIA COMMUNITY ASSIST AWARD
--Kia Motors Expands Its Relationship with NBA Cares to Become the
Title Partner of the Kia Community Assist Award--
NEW YORK, March 29, 2012 – Portland Trail Blazers guard Wesley Matthews
is the recipient of the Kia Community Assist Award for February in
recognition of his outstanding efforts in the community and his ongoing
philanthropic and charitable work, the NBA announced today.
Kia and the NBA are honoring Matthews for his work giving back to
children and families in the Portland community. During the past two
seasons, Matthews has led a coat drive that benefits Portland’s Police
Activities League, which to date has collected more than 1,100 coats for
local families in need. As part of his efforts, Matthews encouraged fans
to donate via television and radio spots, social media and conducted an
autograph session at a local clothing store. The Trail Blazers star also
treated five children to a shopping spree and personally purchased each
of them new coats, shoes and clothing in addition to providing them money
to buy coats for their family and to make the drive’s initial donation.
“Giving back to the community puts everything in perspective,” Matthews
said. “As players, basketball is something that we do, it’s not who we
are as people. Making a difference is what defines a person and I am
grateful to be in a position to help children and families in need.”
Understanding the advantage of positive role models for children,
Matthews also serves as a spokesperson for the Big Brothers, Big Sisters
Sports Buddies program and regularly hosts basketball camps for young
members where he emphasizes the importance of maintaining an active,
healthy lifestyle. In addition to his ongoing support of the Portland’s
Police Activities League through the coat drives, Matthews also
participates in the organization’s annual Thanksgiving meal donation and
delivery program to provide local families with meals to celebrate the
holiday.
As a Kia Community Assist Award recipient, Matthews will receive the
David Robinson Plaque with the inscription, “Following the standard set
by NBA Legend David Robinson who improved the community piece by piece.”
In addition, Kia and the NBA will donate $10,000 on Matthews’ behalf to
the charity of his choice.
Since 2010, Kia Motors has been an NBA Cares partner, with participation
in community events including the NBA Cares All-Star Day of Service. Kia
is expanding its NBA Cares partnership by serving as title partner of the
Community Assist Award.
The league presents the Kia Community Assist Award monthly throughout the
season as well as a final award at the end of the season to recognize
players for their year-round charitable efforts. The award honors the NBA
player who best reflects the passion that the league and its players have
for giving back to their communities.
To learn more, please log on to
www.nba.com/kiacommunityassist.
