Ahead of his birthday on Friday, basketball legend Michael Jordan has made a $10 million donation to Make-A-Wish America. The organization said Wednesday that this is the largest donation from an individual in its 43-year history.
Make-A-Wish, which creates life-altering wishes for children with critical illnesses, celebrated the NBA star for supporting it since 1989 when he granted the first wish. Since then, Jordan “has granted hundreds of wishes to children all over the world, becoming one of the all-time most requested celebrity wish granters,” the foundation said.
“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,” said Jordan. “Witnessing their strength and resilience during such a tough time in their lives has truly been an inspiration. 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,” the NBA legend, who turns 60 on Friday, said.
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The wish-granting organization said Jordan’s donation will create an endowment to help fund the future wishes of the kids with critical illnesses.
Hall of Famer Jordan set so many records on the basketball court. Besides being a six-time NBA champion, he is a five-time MVP winner and 14-time All Star (in 15 seasons). Today, he owns the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets. In 2021, he donated $10 million to open two new medical clinics in North Carolina.
“Everyone knows about Michael’s legacy on the basketball court, but it’s what he has consistently done off the court when no one’s watching that makes him a true legend for wish families and the wider Make-A-Wish community,” Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America, said. “Michael using his birthday as a chance to make history for Make-A-Wish speaks to the quality of his character and his loyal dedication to making life better for children with critical illnesses.”
Make-A-Wish said it hopes that the public will be inspired to follow in Jordan’s footsteps by helping make wishes come true.
