The fathers of some of the NBA stars spent part of the All-Star game weekend in Robbins, hoping to inspire hope to a community.
Dwayne Wade, Sr. talked about how he moved his young family to Robbins from Englewood when his son, NBA star Dwyane Wade, was a child.
“I didn’t know what to do but I made it happen,” he told the crowd of about 100 primary school students and their parents Saturday at the Robbin Community Center.
That decision to strive for a better life was especially beneficial for Wade’s family because it meant his son got to play in the NBA, he said.
The event was organized by Father and Men of Professional Basketball Players, Inc., which is designed to help fathers of professional basketball players with some of the challenges of that life.
Charles Paul, father of NBA star Chris Paul, said transitioning to wealth and fame was challenge for his family.
He taught his children basketball and football and had coached them in several leagues.
So, when Chris Paul suddenly came into fame and wealth in the NBA, Charles Paul was there to help his son in dealing with the media and managing his money.
Charles Paul said he came to Robbins partly to convey his message about the important role fathers play in raising their children.
“Part of our mission is to give back to the communities where our sons and daughters play,” he said.
Ed Gordon, father of NBA player Aaron Gordon, said people can tend to feel a sense of hopelessness in communities like Robbins, so he hopes their panel was able to instill some confidence.
“Also, we wanted to let everyone know that not everyone’s going to make it to the NBA, but there are other ways to be successful,” he said.
It was announced that Microsoft, in partnership with the Wade Family Foundation, will begin a series of workshops in April at the center. Called Make Hustle Happen, they will show students how to build on their dreams and create a business plan.
Children also were taught basic computer coding concepts that allow the creation of video games. And every student present was offered a voucher for a free private gaming package at the Microsoft Store for them and 15 of their friends.
Robbins Mayor Tyrone Ward told the group there are other occupations around the game of basketball that are very realistic goals for students, such as being part of the coaching staff or working in sports medicine.
Dr. Ansel Johnson, an optometrist with an office in Blue Island, said he grew up in Robbins and was there to show that someone from the village can find success in other careers.
“A lot of people talk about the celebrities and athletes who come from Robbins,” he said. “People don’t realize there are doctors and engineers who also come out of Robbins.”
Justin Tyler of Homewood brought his 12-year-old daughter, and said the diversity of business leaders there was a great example for students.
“This is a good educational event for the kids,” he said.
