LeBron Gives Back To Akron Families

I Promise Housing Development in Akron, OH, backed by the Lebron James Family Foundation.

King James is giving back to the Akron community. His foundation, the Lebron James Family Foundation, launches I PROMISE Housing. This will provide 50 affordable apartment units to Akron residents.

Although this isn’t the first instance where the Lebron James Family Foundation has given back to the Akron community, this is the first initiative to provide solutions to the housing crisis and create a safe space for families in need. According to news5celevand.com, “ … the foundation celebrated the grand opening of the I PROMISE Housing development, in partnership with the East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation on Maple Street, with a ribbon cutting and tour of the building. The 50-unit building features two, three and four-bedroom apartments that all have access to fiber-optic Wi-Fi, in addition to community and fitness rooms. Some units are designed for those with mobility and sensory needs.”

LeBron James talks to the crew of the I Promise Housing development.

The housing market and aesthetic overview has drastically changed in style since the 1900s. The classic aesthetic of apartment units have transitioned to a modern and sophisticated interior style. Thus, this was an important factor for the East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation to consider when building the units. Dan DeVille, Vice Chair of East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation, stated his perspective on how your home can positively change the lives of students and young adults.

LeBron's mom participated in today's ribbon-cutting & held tightly to her slice of ribbon.🎀
Gloria James said the #IPromiseHousing is a signature achievement for @LJFamFoundation.
To her, safe housing = stability for the foundation's families. pic.twitter.com/s2LYdueqCt
— Margaret Bernstein (@margbern) June 8, 2023

This is a powerful and sentimental achievement for Akron due to its history and how many residents of the community gave up on it. However, James, his foundation, and collaborators all had a greater vision in mind. These affordable housing units will provide the youth and families with a permanent space, not them having to worry about anything temporary. Gloria James, Lebron’s mother, shared her compassion for the families that will be able to move into the units. “LeBron always says leave a place better than when you found it. This is a way of not only doing that but inspiring all of our families and everyone to do the same,” said Gloria James.

By Kori Barnes, University of Southern California

Socials: @korixnicole

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