As part of NBA All-Star 2020, members of the NBA family will support tens of thousands of children across Chicago’s neighbourhoods through programs and events.

Together with Chicago Public Schools and more than 40 community-based organizations, including Center on Halsted, Greater Chicago Food Depository, City Year Chicago and YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, the programs will focus on promoting physical and mental wellness, teaching the values and fundamentals of the game, creating spaces for open dialogue and mentorship, supporting those in need and empowering the city’s next generation of leaders. 

The week-long efforts will be highlighted by the first-ever NBA All-Star Youth Leadership Council, a group of 20 high school-aged young people from throughout Chicago that first convened in November 2019 in partnership with the Chicago Bulls, After School Matters, Chicago CRED and Youth Guidance.

The students, who have met weekly in small groups to research challenges impacting their neighbourhoods and collaborate on solutions, will present their perspectives and vision for change through five youth-led community projects for the first time at the NBA Voices Youth Summit on Thursday, Feb. 13.

As part of the new format that was announced last month, Team Giannis and Team Lebron will be playing for the Chicago Scholars and the After School Matters programs to raise money for these impactful projects.

Along with members of the Youth Leadership Council and the beneficiaries, hundreds of youth from across Chicago’s neighbourhoods will be invited to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience at NBA Rising Stars, State Farm All-Star Saturday Night and the 69th NBA All-Star Game. In total, more than $1 million will be contributed to local organizations during NBA All-Star 2020 through NBA Cares community outreach efforts.

GiveMeSport will be at the NBA ALLSTAR Weekend bringing you all the latest from all the events.