Lillard Awarded April’s Community Assist Award

Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard received April’s NBA Cares Community Assist Award presented by Kaiser Permanente. According to the press release from the Blazers, the monthly award was presented to Lillard for his continued work with Portland youth.

The press release went on to highlight Lillard’s RESPECT program.

Since arriving in Portland in 2012, Lillard has focused on investing in and mentoring local high school-aged youth through his RESPECT program that supports, encourages and celebrates three Portland-area high schools – McDaniel, Parkrose and Roosevelt. This year amidst the global pandemic and the new virtual learning environment, RESPECT adjusted to maintain engagement with the students. Lillard committed to video visits to keep in contact with participants remotely and highlighted students and teachers that exemplified the principles of the program through his social media platforms. As schools returned to in-person learning, he provided RESPECT branded face masks for students and staff participating in the programs.

Along with recognizing Lillard’s efforts, Kaiser Permanente will donate $10,000 on behalf of Lillard to Special Olympics Oregon.

You can read the full press release from the Blazers by clicking here.