Russell Westbrook is back again with an initiative to support his hometown.
The Los Angeles Clippers star has joined Evermont, a project to build 180 affordable housing units in South Los Angeles, CA, reports FOX 11, an affiliate of FOX in Los Angeles.
Anchored by Target, the housing development plans to build on a site where the Los Angeles riots happened following the police officers being acquitted after brutally beating Rodney King in 1992.
In addition to the affordable housing for seniors and families, the Westbrook-backed project will include a SEED school and “community-centered businesses,” the outlet details. Moreover, new jobs will be available for residents. The overall mission is to play a role in shifting the narrative of South Central Los Angeles by leading with civil and community engagement.
According to Russell Westbrook Enterprises’ website, Westbrook founded the Russell Westbrook Why Not? Foundation in 2012.
“His foundation is dedicated to inspiring the lives of children, empowering them to ask ‘Why not?’ and teaching them to never give up,” the website reads.
Since then, he’s invested in the city, joining forces with the organization LeadersUp to provide his community access to health services, educational services, and job training, as previously reported by AFROTECH™.
“Being from the inner city, I understand the resources, access, and opportunities that are needed for young people,” said Westbrook, per a press release. “It’s a privilege to be able to help the South L.A. community and beyond, whether it’s through education or job creation.”
LeadersUp President and CEO Jeffery Wallace added, “I applaud Russell Westbrook’s leadership and strategic philanthropic investment into his community through coaching, careers, and the social capital needed to help BIPOC young adults win. He is a true champion of the next generation of talent. Education and access to career opportunities are critical to advancing an antiracist economy that works for all.”
