Wade's World Foundation

W3 Weekend - 2009

2ND ANNUAL WADE'S WORLD WEEKEND

W3 Weekend is one of the highlights of the year at Wade's World Foundation. A weekend filled with events that inspire youth and adults to make a difference in the community. We would like to thank all of our sponsors and supporters who participated! We look forward to another year of W3 events in 2010.

William Leonard Public Library Check Presentation

To kick off the weekend of events Dwyane went to his hometown of Robbins, Illinois on Thursday morning to deliver a $25,000 check to help save the struggling William Leonard Library. He always felt it was important to give back to where he came from. The library graciously accepted the check allowing them to be in a more stable financial situation, and bringing light to a financial hardship they had been going through. Now the library will be able to keep its' doors open for all of the children in the neighborhood. Giving them a secure place to grow their academic and intellectual being.

Carnival Cruise Lines Foundation Dinner

On Thursday, September 9th, the setting was an intimate dinner party/live auction hosted by Don Lemon of CNN fame. The cause was to benefit WWF. Guests enjoyed a private cocktail reception with a performance by Michael Johns the American Idol Season 7 standout. The live auction included some amazing prizes for those special guests who did their share and bid. A D. Wade experience, a brand Jordan photo and a lavish 7-day Cruise by event sponsor Carnival Cruise Lines all went home with a few lucky guests. The real winners of the night were the "Unsung Heroes Community" a group dedicated to aiding the underprivileged in the Chicagoland area. They received a check for $5000 that will aid them in their effort. All in all it was a very special night that those attending will not forget.

Betsy Ross and Cockrell CPC Visit

On Friday, September 10th Dwyane took time to visit the elementary school he attended as a child, Betsy Ross Elementary. He lent a hand to the aspiring artists and put some finishing touches on a mural with some fellow students. While at the school, Dwyane also gave out school supplies such as pencils and paper to those in need. The biggest gift he gave was a $10,000 donation to go towards the schools renovation. He also took the time to stop by Cockwell CPC, to share some time with the kids there. All in all it was definitely a gold star day for all of the kids at both schools as well as Dwyane.

W3 2nd Annual Bowling Event

Later on that Friday night, Dwyane gathered with fellow athletes and celebs such as Udonis Haslem, Jannero Pargo, Jaime Hector, and Cullen Jones in the name of charity to compete in a friendly one roll bowling competition. While DJ Remy Karaoke played top 40 hits guests were invited to bid on items at the silent auction. A few lucky supporters had the opportunity to take home a Wade autographed jersey, a Chicago Blackhawks ticket package, a Jermaine Dye autographed baseball and a "Sweet Lou" Pinella autographed jersey. Fun washad by all.

W3 Stop the Violence Movement

Starting that Saturday, September 11th Wade's World Foundation brought forth some real issues local Chicago kids face in every day life. Over 200 kids participated in the "Stop the Violence Movement" a 3 block walk in silence for the youth that were shot in 2009 thus far. Red balloons were released to signify each individual lost this past year. A clearly moved Dwyane shared his thoughts with the kids that attended that day.

W3 Youth Summit

Saturday afternoon the W3 Youth Summit took place. Local heroes and influencers Dwyane, Jamie Hector, Cullen Jones, Udonis Haslem, local attorneys, social workers and activists all were part of the panel. The kids spent time telling stories and asking questions of this esteemed panel. They spoke of violence they have seen as well as what it is like to walk in their shoes. An attentive panel was quick to provide hope and inspiration for those who needed to hear it. The motivating film about Dwyane's life "Undeniable: The Rise of Dwyane Wade" was presented and set the tone for an uplifting finale. The film chronicled D. Wade's unpredictable journey from an under-recruited High School star, to a College All-American and finally to NBA stardom.

Gatorade's Inaugural "D. Wade's Chicago Got Talent"

Saturday night was rounded off, with a talent show stacked with local talent. Performers from all backgrounds turned up to share their skills. Hosted by Gatorade, "D. Wade's Chicago Got Talent" took place at the prestigious Harris Theater in Millennium Park. Hosted by the always comical Gary Owens the audience was star struck by the local talent that performed. Singers, dancers and entertainers from the Chicagoland area set the bar high. Michael Johns, of American Idol, also lent a hand in performing. One talented performer took the top prize, an all expense paid trip to the NBA All-Star Weekend.

W3 Weekend Finale at the Temple of Praise Binding and Loosing Ministries

Education is always at the forefront of what WWF is all about and this year was no different. The School Supply Giveaway was held at the temple of Praise Binding and Loosing Ministries, Dwyane's Mothers' church. Children that attended all received school supplies, cool graphic t-shirts and new shoes. This uplifting event was a spiritual way to end a week of charitable events. Dwyane spoke to the congregation and reinforced the ideals of what his charity stands for, to promote education, health and social skills for children in at-risk situations. As a keepsake to remember their time spent with Dwyane and his supporting cast these special participants and their moms were invited to have a photo taken with D. Wade at the church.