NBA News NBA News, Match Reports and Updates
During the fourth annual All-Star Pitch Competition Finals, American Express unveiled the “American Express Community All-Star Award,” a new category featuring a $50,000 prize. The first recipient of this honor was LeAndrew Robinson, the founder of Poster Child AI, a company that is transforming fundraising strategies for nonprofit organizations. Robinson’s venture utilizes AI tools to aid nonprofits in enhancing their content marketing and fundraising capabilities.
LeAndrew presenting Poster Child AI.
When reflecting on his victory, Robinson remarked, “Simply being part of this event was a privilege, as I had already gained so much through the mentorship and connections I formed. Winning the award was merely the icing on the cake.” He expressed that the recognition from American Express and the NBA Foundation would have a profound impact on his career. “The solution we have created empowers nonprofits to effectively market their missions and drive change.”
As the first winner of this accolade, Robinson indicated, “The continuous efforts of the NBA Foundation and American Express exemplify the positive differences they are making in society.”
LeAndrew Robinson grinned with delight after viewing his image in the Pitch Competition commercial broadcasted during All-Star Weekend.
Reflecting on his journey at the 74th annual NBA All-Star Events, Robinson expressed, “I felt like a star. The NBA featured contestants in commercials, which made my friends and family proud. The entire experience was uplifting for entrepreneurs, and the support I received from the NBA team, fellow competitors, and sponsors will resonate long after the event. We were more than just an ancillary event—we were an integral part of All-Star Weekend. That speaks volumes about the NBA’s commitment to community, both on and off the court.”
The American Express Leadership Academy empowers leaders in the nonprofit and social sector with the necessary skills, resources, and networking opportunities to amplify their impact.
Collaborating for Change
The partnership forged between the NBA and American Express is designed to be purpose-driven and extends well beyond All-Star Weekend. In November, the NBA collaborated with American Express and Common Purpose to launch the American Express Leadership Academy—an exemplary program aimed at global nonprofit leaders that offers invaluable insights from leaders across sectors, growth tools, and access to an influential network of peers.
Kicking off the Leadership Academy in New York City, the NBA Foundation hosted an intimate fireside chat featuring Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum. Seventy-six nonprofit leaders from ten countries in the Americas took part. The discussion emphasized the importance of effecting change within organizations by setting a well-defined mission and leading with that vision.
Mark Tatum addressing attendees at the American Express Leadership Academy.
Champions of Community Change
On the third night of the American Express Leadership Academy, Kathy Behrens—President of Social Responsibility & Player Programs at the NBA—spoke at the program’s Awards Reception. Behrens awarded the NBA Foundation Community Changemaker Awards to three Leadership Academy alumni, each receiving $25,000 for their organizations. These recipients will apply the funding to further promote economic opportunities for youth.
2024 Winners of the NBA Foundation Community Changemakers:
The NBA Foundation and American Express have united to create opportunities for leadership development among nonprofit leaders and enhance capital access for entrepreneurs. “The collaboration with American Express has enabled the NBA Foundation to enhance our impact alongside nonprofit leaders and entrepreneurs. We are excited to have a mission-driven partner join us in promoting economic opportunities in NBA communities.” – Genisha Metcalf, Partnerships Lead, NBA Foundation.
“At American Express, we are thankful for the chance to strengthen our longstanding partnership with the NBA Foundation and explore innovative, aligned strategies to boost each other’s community outreach initiatives—like our support for local changemakers, whether they are entrepreneurs or nonprofit leaders.” – Madge Thomas, Head of Corporate Sustainability, American Express.
