Former OKC Thunder franchise star Russell Westbrook continues to lead in philanthropy with launch of new tech program for LA inner city youth.
The Houston Rockets fanbase no doubt is familiar with Russell Westbrook‘s prowess on the court and absolute 100 percent effort every game. However, something the Houston community may not be familiar with but will learn is how invested the Brodie is in philanthropy. Both the OKC Thunder and his home area of Los Angeles are intimately familiar with his ongoing philanthropy given the copious events as well as the time and effort Westbrook puts into giving back. Even on the night, Westbrook learned of his trade he found out on stage at his charity comedy event.
Throughout the 11 seasons in Oklahoma City Westbrook held charity events during the holidays, did special functions like the comedy and bowling events all interlaced with his Why Not? Foundation.
The superstar is constantly giving back to the less fortunate and taking a leadership role among his peers in this regard. This week that includes the announcement of Westbrook launching a tech program for at risk youth in his local Los Angeles area. The program’s official name is Westbrook/Brownstein Green Tech Program.
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The goal is to reach out to inner city kids who wouldn’t typically have access to programs of this nature to teach them tech job skills. The program offers training for careers in coding, computer literacy, and computer engineering. People Magazine writer Reagan Alexander highlights the particulars of the program and interviews Westbrook on site.
"I just want to be able to impact and inspire as many people as possible. I can relate to them because I was one of them, and it’s important that they know that and understand that I am here to help give them the resources for them to be able to be successful in this world."
This isn’t a new mandate of the former OKC Thunder point guard who produced a limited edition t-shirt series in collaboration with Advisory Board of Crystals through his Honor the Gift brand. Proceeds from the sale of the shirts benefitted the LA school, Inner City Arts school earlier this summer. The proceeds from the sale of the shirts went directly toward a creative arts program.
Having grown up in LA, Westbrook is all too familiar with the limitations of the inner city and his philanthropic efforts frequently focus on impacting and helping children by opening opportunities for their futures.
Although Westbrook will play for the Houston Rockets and be present in their community it wouldn’t be surprising if he maintains a presence in Oklahoma City philanthropically. It’s just the kind of person he is.