Superman Extends Hand to Boys and Girls Club
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April 3, 2009
ORLANDO -- Dwight Howard is used to playing the role of Superman for the Magic on the court.
But now, he's getting pretty accustomed to being a superhero for children in the community as well.
The recent winner of the Ace Hardware Helpful Player of the Month award once again displayed his commitment to improving Central Florida as he donated $20,000 to the Pine Hills Boys and Girls Club on Thursday.
"I wanted to do something for my community and for the kids," Howard said about his donation.
But his contributions didn't end there.
After handing over his check, Howard presented 50 members of the club, between ages 13-17, with $100 gift cards to Finish Line.
He then played the role of personal shopper and helped each kid individually select a pair of sneakers that best matched their style and personality.
"For the kids it is just a real thrill," said Boys and Girls Club of Central Florida President Gary Cain. "You can see the interaction they are having with Dwight. And Dwight is so good with them. I have seen a lot of celebrities interact with our kids. I've never seen anyone better than Dwight."
While all acts of charity by professional athletes are to be commended, Howard's actions went beyond the normal routine.
Without going through the NBA or the Orlando Magic, Howard took the time out of his busy schedule to plan and assist in coordinating the event on his own.
"There are a lot of things I do just for my community," the Magic's All-Star center explained after spending approximately two hours interacting with the children. "It doesn't have to involve the media or cameras being around; just being out and spending some time with the kids is the biggest thing."
After getting to know Howard through the charity work he's done for the Boys and Girls Club in the past, Cain is not surprised anytime Orlando's Superman extends a helping hand.
"Although he's larger than life physically, he really seems to be very humble and modest," the club's president said of Howard's personality. "He's very aware and appreciative of where he is in life and the good things that have come to him."
For Howard, it's all about leaving his mark in the local community.
"I always want to leave a legacy wherever I am at," the Magic's center said. "I want to leave my footprint in Orlando."
But according to Boys and Girls Club member Destinee Austin, he already has.
"He has a great personality," the young girl said of Howard after he selected a pair of blue and white shoes to match her wardrobe. "Actually, he's my favorite basketball player."
With all the work Howard is doing throughout the community, the footprint he's leaving is even larger than the gargantuan size 18 sneakers he wears on his feet.
