
Jason with children from Oakland's Northern Light School (Getty Images).
Mission Statement
The Jason Kidd Foundation is dedicated to improving education among the youth, by ensuring that kids of all ages have the tools needed through mentoring, tutoring and technology programs to succeed in life.
Background
NBA All-Star and Olympic Gold Medalist, Jason Kidd, established his Foundation in March 1999. As many of us, Jason believes that we must nurture and assist in the development of our children because they are our future.
"Giving back to the community is very important to me because the community has given me so much throughout my career," Jason has said. "Fan support has really kept me going and it means a lot to me. I've been so lucky to have a career doing what I love. I love helping others-good service to others is what brings you true happiness.”
Since first arriving on the NBA scene as a rookie in 1994, Jason Kidd has demonstrated his commitment to philanthropy and remains one of the most involved, community-oriented players in the league. Beyond his Olympic medals, 10-time NBA All-Star honors and endless on-court accolades, the point guard’s hardwood vision and ability to inspire those around him extends far beyond the sidelines. Jason and his Foundation have given a tremendous amount of time and resources to support numerous causes, literally transforming the lives of thousands of individuals. For Jason, the ability to give is one of the greatest blessings of his success. A recipient of the NBA Cares Community Assist Award during the 2009-10 season, Kidd’s outstanding efforts in the Dallas community and beyond are second to none.
From participating in Read to Achieve; to taking part in the dedication of a Mavs Reading & Learning Center; making dreams come true for Make-A-Wish youngsters; donating funds to international crisis victims; showing soldiers his appreciation; getting involved with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, which raises money for childhood cancer research; and much more, Jason’s year round passion for improving the lives of individuals worldwide is clear.
Testimonials
"Jason Kidd characterizes the type of player that every team owner could want on their team...an encouraging and supportive leader, a tireless worker and a fierce competitor with the intense drive to win. He represents our team with the utmost respect and continues to take a proactive role in the Dallas community. It is no secret that Jason is an outstanding basketball player, but as I have gotten to know him off the court over the past several years, I can tell you he is much more than that. He is a well-rounded family man with a huge heart and the determination to succeed at everything he does."
---Mark Cuban, Dallas Mavericks Owner & Entrepreneur
"Jason is not only an unbelievable basketball player, but an unbelievable man. He leads by example and has a way of inspiring those around him. I am grateful for having had the opportunity to represent my country alongside Jason during the 2008 Olympics. He was one of the team's driving forces and served as a role model to all of us."
---Chris Paul, New Orleans Hornets and three-time NBA All-Star
"Jason's commitment to the Northern Lights School (NLS) is truly an inspiration to the students, staff and faculty at our school. He doesn't just donate money, but more importantly, he is generous with his time. Our students look up to Jason, and he demonstrates his commitment to serving as a role model to them. Jason is the epitome of a class act, and we feel fortunate to be a partner of the Jason Kidd Foundation."
---Michelle Lewis, NLS Director
"Jason's generosity, both in time and money, towards these children is emblematic of the true spirit of the holiday season. It was a special treat to see the joy on these children's faces."
---Lynn Davis, Dallas Children Advocacy Center
For more information, go to http://www.jasonkiddfoundation.org.