NEW YORK, Feb. 26, 2010 – Philadelphia 76ers center Samuel Dalembert has been named the recipient of the NBA Cares Community Assist Award for January in recognition of his outstanding efforts in the community and for his ongoing philanthropic and charitable work.
The NBA is honoring Dalembert for his work with UNICEF and other relief organizations following the devastating earthquake in the Caribbean nation of Haiti last month. A Haitian native, Dalembert immediately jumped into action to help the millions of children and families suffering as a result of the massive destruction. In the days following the tragic earthquake, Dalembert joined the NBA’s long-time partner UNICEF to film a public service announcement to raise awareness and funding for relief efforts and made a personal donation of more than $120,000 to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. Later in the month, Dalembert traveled to Haiti with NBA Legend Alonzo Mourning and Project Medishare to deliver emergency medical supplies and to provide hands-on assistance.
"We are so proud that our partnership with the NBA has lead to a friendship with Sammy. This is a well deserved recognition for this remarkable man and his foundation. His warmth, generosity and steadfast commitment to the world's children serve as an example for all," said Caryl M. Stern, president and CEO, U.S. Fund for UNICEF. "I've just returned from Haiti and can well appreciate Sammy's love for this beautiful country and its people. We at the U.S. Fund share his vision to do whatever it takes to help the children of Haiti progressively realize their rights to survival, education and protection...essentially, their childhood."
In December 2009, Dalembert announced a three-year commitment to support UNICEF programs for children in Haiti. During a 2007 trip to his native country where he spent time at UNICEF-supported schools and hospitals, Dalembert saw first-hand the organization’s commitment to bring hope and assistance to millions of Haitian families and children. Following the trip, he made a $150,000 pledge to UNICEF to assist impoverished communities throughout Haiti over the next three years and has continued to support the people of Haiti through the Samuel Dalembert Foundation. Dalembert is focused on supporting the rebuilding of Haiti and working to improve the living conditions for Haitian children and families through restoration projects, health and education programs, and much more.
“I can’t begin to imagine what my friends and family are going through as they deal with the aftermath of this terrible tragedy,” said Dalembert. “I will do everything in my power to support the much-needed relief efforts and to encourage others to do the same.”
As the January NBA Community Assist Award recipient, Dalembert will receive the David Robinson Plaque with the inscription, “Following the standard set by NBA Legend David Robinson who improved the community piece by piece.” In addition, a $5,000 donation will be given by the NBA to support the Samuel Dalembert Foundation.
The league presents the NBA Community Assist Award monthly to recognize players for their charitable efforts. The award honors the NBA player who best reflects the passion that the league and its players have for giving back to their communities
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