The Jordan Brand has made a tremendous philanthropic contribution on behalf of Michael Jordan. A rep for the Jordan Brand disclosed his recent contribution for 2024 towards organizations aiding education, economic justice, narrative change and social justice in their efforts. This week, The Jordan Brand and its namesake donated $8 million in grants to 37 organizations nationwide. These grants are distributed through the Black Community Committment Fund, an initiative MJ launched to uplift the black community in 2020.
Sarah Mensah, the first female president of the Jordan Brand, stated about the grants, “The Jordan Brand has a unique and distinct role to play in continuing to elevate Black culture and Black communities.” For that reason, they launched the fund four years ago to combat issues negatively affecting the black community at the height of a social justice movement in the country. “It’s why we are so committed to partnering closely with organizations who are boldly and intentionally leading the change to create a more equitable future for Black Americans. We are privileged to support these organizations in their inspiring work.”
His Airness and his Jordan Brand pledged to donate $100 million across 10 years through a community grand program. $50 million came personally from MJ. Nike put up an additional $40 million towards this initiative making it a $140 million pledge. Back then, they emphasized, “Action and Impact,” was the focus behind distributing grants.
The fund’s goal is to reward the organizations for their efforts with grants under $3 million. Since then, the Jordan Brand has continued to make annual contributions to different organizations that align with their purpose. And they will continue to see the pledge through the end.
Jordan Brand’s diverse philanthropy
Mensah confirmed that as of February 2024, Nike and the Jordan Brand have donated more than $30 million towards various causes. In 2021, The Jordan Brand donated $2.5 million to fight Black voter suppression with $1 million each to the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc and the Formerly Incarcerated & Convicted People and Families Movement. $500,000 was donated to Black Voters Matter.
They donated grants totalling $2.3 million across 48 organizations in 2023. Among the recipients was the Dallas-based organization, Beyond the Ball, an organization empowering Gen-Z towards STEM careers.
It hasn’t only been financial. Jordan Brand athletes and MJ’s friends like newly crowned 2024 champion Jayson Tatum, WNBA’s Kia Nurse and Aerial Powers, NBA legend, Carmelo Anthony, MLB star Mookie Betts, NFL quarterback Dak Prescott, Air Jordan commercial’s genius, Spike Lee, and more have furthered the campaign.
Mensah spoke on behalf of the Jordan Brand and the Jumpman that this initiative won’t stop after 10 years. The commitment is infinite and it shows.
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