MAGIC'S HOWARD WINS COMMUNITY ASSIST AWARD

This was released today by the NBA.

NEW YORK, August 9, 2007 – In recognition of Dwight Howard’s outstanding efforts in the community and for his ongoing philanthropic work, the NBA has honored the Orlando Magic center with the Community Assist Award for July.

Dwight Howard was extremely active in the Orlando, FL community during the NBA season, including providing basketball camp scholarships and purchasing 40 tickets for each game for at-risk youth to have the opportunity to see the Magic in action. Howard’s efforts have continued during the offseason as well, in Orlando and his hometown of Atlanta, GA.

On July 2, Howard made a surprise visit to the Pine Hills Boys & Girls Club which has more than 300 members. The club had been the victim of break-ins that resulted in the loss of a new television and computers. During Howard’s visit he announced that he would be donating $17,500 so the Club could replace the computer, purchase a new television, and buy new furniture for the younger children to enjoy.

During his visit Howard also decided to take 75 kids on a shopping spree with each child receiving a $100 gift card to spend on whatever they wanted. That afternoon, Dwight treated another group of kids from the Club to lunch at Chuck E. Cheese’s.

“I think the kids give more to me than I could ever give to them and it just brings a smile to my face to make someone happy,” said Howard. “It’s my obligation as an NBA player to give back whenever I can and it really is something I truly enjoy doing.”

In addition to his efforts with the Pine Hills Boys & Girls Club, Howard also held his Third Annual Howard Basketball Camp during July. The camp, a program developed to strengthen communication in father and son relationships, was held at Atlanta’s Frederick Douglass High School and featured physical training, education and inspirational activities all hosted by guest speakers, community leaders and other professional athletes.

The Dwight D. Howard Foundation, Inc. is a faith-based organization whose mission is to help strengthen family relationships. The foundation’s goal is to bridge gaps that exist between parents and children. Through reading programs, after-school and computer initiatives, as well as adopt-a-child programs, Howard and his parents are committed to strengthening family relationships.

As the recipient of the NBA Community Assist Award, Howard will receive the David Robinson Plaque with the inscription, “Following the standard set by NBA Legend David Robinson who improved the community piece by piece.” In addition to the plaque, a $5,000 donation will be given to the Pine Hills Boys & Girls Club & House of Hope on Howard’s behalf.

The league presents the NBA Community Assist Award monthly to recognize players for their charitable efforts. The award honors the NBA player who reflects the passion that the league and its players have for giving back to their communities.