Widely celebrated for his outstanding performance on the basketball court, Dwight Howard is also known for his deep-seated commitment to helping his community. In 2004, along with his parents, Dwight Sr. and Sheryl, Howard established the Dwight D. Howard Foundation, which works to promote children’s education and positive family relationships. The foundation has awarded scholarships to students at Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy, where Howard attended high school, and to other area schools. Howard also instituted the “Friends of Superman” ticket program, giving tickets to 160 children to each Magic’s game.

Howard has donated $20,000 to Pine Hills Boys and Girls Club, and took children in the program on a shopping spree at Finish Line. He has participated in events for the Paramore Kid Zone Teen Shack, the Blessings in a Backpack program at Lake Como Elementary Christian Service Center, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Along with other Magic players, Howard visited the Florida Children’s Hospital during the holidays, talking with children on the pediatric cancer floor. Howard says of his service, “Whenever I get a chance to do something, I run to it. It means more to me than anything to see the kids smile and touch their lives.”

About Dwight Howard

Dwight Howard plays as a center for the Orlando Magic.  After an impressive high school career at Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy, Howard entered the 2004 NBA draft, where he was selected first overall by the Magic. In 2007, he made the All-NBA Third Team. In 2008 and 2009, Howard was selected for the All-NBA First Team, and was named to the All Defensive Team. A three time NBA All Star, he was named the All-Star Slam Dunk Champion in 2008, and won the 2009 Defensive Player of the Year award. Howard has maintained a high ranking in the NBA for his impressive field goal percentage and rebound stats, and his achievements on the court have earned him the nickname “Superman.”