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Shareef Abdur-Rahim

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Sources of Inspiration – How the women in my life have shaped me

Sources of Inspiration – How the women in my life have shaped me

My mother was the first to spark my passion for sports. We used to watch basketball games together all the time, and we were huge Boston Celtics fans. It was really that bond that fueled my determination to play the game.

And as I reflect… I’m reminded of the many remarkable women who have shaped my perspective and ignited my commitment to helping others whether through sports or through Future Foundation.

My mother didn’t just instill in me a love of sports but also a love for giving back. She is a woman of boundless compassion, spirituality, and the relentless desire to help others. Her selfless acts of kindness and dedication to volunteering laid the foundation for the values that would later inspire the creation of Future Foundation – a nonprofit organization that once started as an afterschool program in some of Atlanta’s most underserved communities that has grown into a paradigm-shifting network that changes the lives of South Fulton’s 6th-12th graders. From her, I learned the power of empathy and the importance of using our talents to uplift those around us.

My journey has been a winding journey and it has changed throughout the years, and there’s one person who has been my steadfast companion and support through all of it; my wife, Dee Dee. There have been many times when the constant back and forth was difficult on all of us, but her commitment, courage, and consistency in motivating me to be the best version of myself pushed me (and continues to push me) to strive for excellence in all that I do.

With 5 sisters, I observed first-hand the commitment they pour into everything we do. My older sister is such a source of wisdom and compassion, and as an older brother, it laid the foundation for me to encourage my siblings to embrace their boldness and not give in to other people’s expectations – that they could forge whatever path they chose.

And then there’s my daughter – an absolute light of open-mindedness, compassion, and appreciation for diverse perspectives. Her unwavering belief in the power of unity is a constant reminder that inclusivity is the cornerstone of progress.

The landscape of sports and the world at large are constantly changing, and I am continuously inspired by the tenacity and resilience of women who are breaking barriers all around us.

Future Foundation is where I hope we can create that positive change. At the heart of Future Foundation’s mission lies a profound dedication to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow, and instilling in them the essential skills and confidence as they navigate the world around them.

With the recent announcement of 11 new members joining the board of directors marks an exciting chapter for Future Foundation. With fresh perspectives and renewed energy, these individuals bring a wealth of experience and insight that will undoubtedly propel the organization’s initiatives to new heights. Their presence signifies a continued dedication to innovation and growth, ensuring Future Foundation stays at the forefront of empowering youth and driving positive change.

My hope is that each young person who walks through the doors of Future Foundation can step boldly into the world, equipped with skills and tools to make a difference not only in their own lives but in the lives of others.

Filed Under: Family, Life Lessons Tagged With: future foundation

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About Shareef
Abdur-Rahim

You might know me as a former NBA athlete. During my 12-year career as a pro athlete, I played for the Vancouver Grizzlies, Atlanta Hawks, Portland Trail Blazers, and Sacramento Kings. I was also a member of the U.S. Olympics Men’s Basketball Team that won gold in 2000.

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