This just cements Michael Jordan’s place as a legend—both in and out of the sports world
This week is basketball legend Michael Jordan’s 60th birthday. And while he could have done what most celebrities do and thrown a giant, Instagram-ready party filled with other A-listers, instead, he decided to do something wonderful for the world: He made a record-breaking, $10 million donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
The $10 million gift is the largest the organization has ever received from an individual in its 43-year history, and it’s not really surprising that it came from Jordan. He’s been involved with Make-A-Wish since 1989, when he granted his first-ever wish for a fan. In a statement, he said that he hopes his gift will inspire other people to support Make-A-Wish, ensuring more kids can have their lives changed by their dreams coming true.
“For the past 34 years, it’s been an honor to partner with Make-A-Wish and help bring a smile and happiness to so many kids,” Jordan said. “Witnessing their strength and resilience during such a tough time in their lives has truly been an inspiration.”
He added, “I can’t think of a better birthday gift than seeing others join me in supporting Make-A-Wish so that every child can experience the magic of having their wish come true.”
According to leaders at Make-A-Wish, Jordan’s gift will be used to “create an endowment to provide the funds needed to make future wishes possible for kids with critical illnesses.” There’s no doubt in our minds that Jordan will continue to be a part of as many of those wishes as possible.
Because celebrities and pro athletes are such major role models for the children Make-A-Wish serves, it’s no wonder that so many of them invest so heavily in the organization and its mission. Pro wrestler John Cena, who has been a part of Make-A-Wish since 2002, recently set a Guinness World Record for the most wishes granted—a whopping 650. That’s a lot of smiles on kids’ faces, something we can all get behind.
