DeMar DeRozan Named NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award Winner for March
DeMar DeRozan Wins NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award for Mental Health Advocacy and Youth Support Initiatives
Chicago Bulls guard-forward DeMar DeRozan has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to mental health advocacy and youth support initiatives in Chicago. DeRozan has been named the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award winner for March, highlighting his efforts to make a positive impact in his community.
One of DeRozan’s key initiatives is the launch of “Dinners with DeMar,” a video series where he engages in meaningful conversations about mental health with current and former players. By featuring guests like Draymond Green, Damian Lillard, and Dwyane Wade, the series aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health challenges. DeRozan also hosted a premiere event at his alma mater, the University of Southern California, to further promote dialogue on mental health.
In addition to his mental health advocacy work, DeRozan has partnered with Coffee, Hip-Hop & Mental Health (CHHAMH) to support efforts to provide free therapy to those facing financial barriers in Chicago. Through initiatives like launching a DeRozan-inspired coffee drink and hoodie, with proceeds benefiting CHHAMH’s therapy meetings, DeRozan is making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
DeRozan expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to use his platform as a Bulls and NBA player to create real change and break the stigma around mental health. He emphasized the importance of honest conversations about mental health and providing resources to support those who need it the most.
Beyond his mental health advocacy work, DeRozan has also actively supported youth in the Chicago community. He recently partnered with Make-A-Wish to provide a VIP experience for a child and his family and hosted a young Bulls fan and cancer survivor on the team plane for an away game.
DeRozan will be officially recognized during the April 17 Hawks-Bulls NBA Play-In Tournament game, where he will receive the David Robinson trophy from Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Artūras Karnišovas. The NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award honors players who positively impact their communities, with each monthly winner receiving the David Robinson trophy and a donation to a charity or foundation of the player’s choice. DeRozan’s dedication to mental health advocacy and youth support initiatives exemplifies the spirit of the award and his commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.