NBA legend Michael Jordan celebrates his 60th birthday with a $10 million donation to Make-A-Wish America on Friday.
It is the largest single donation the organization has received in its 43-year history.
The donation is the latest sign of support by Jordan who granted his first wish in 1989 and since then he has granted hundreds of wishes for seriously ill children.
The organization said he is one of the most popularly requested celebrities. Jordan was named Make a Wishes’ chief ambassador in 2008 “because of his impact on the lives of children and their families.”
“For the past 34 years, it has been an honor to work with Make-A-Wish and help bring smiles and happiness to so many children,” Jordan said, according to a Make-A-Wish press release. “It was truly inspiring to see her strength and resilience at such a difficult time in her life.”
Honoring Jordan on the basketball court is well documented. He’s a six-time NBA champion, five-time MVP winner, 14-time All-Star — in 15 seasons — and a Hall of Famer. He now owns the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets.
“Michael is taking his birthday as an opportunity to make history for Make-A-Wish, and it speaks to the quality of his character and his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of seriously ill children,” said Leslie Mutter, President and CEO of Make One Wish.
According to a study referenced on the Make-A-Wish website, the experience increases children’s hope, joy, confidence, and well-being, and serves as a coping mechanism during therapy.
The study cites medical professionals as well as members of the volunteer community.
The organization said Jordan’s donation would create a foundation to fulfill future wishes.
