Devin Booker’s journey from a high school athlete in Moss Point, Mississippi, to a shining star in the NBA is a tale of relentless determination and community impact. Since being drafted by the Phoenix Suns in 2015, Booker has not only become a beacon of hope on the basketball court but also a pivotal figure in nurturing the community of Arizona.
This article delves into the various facets of Booker’s influence, focusing on his philanthropic endeavors, community engagement, and his vital role in the state’s sports landscape.
Devin Booker: From Underdog to NBA Star
Despite his current stature as an NBA superstar, Devin Booker’s journey was filled with challenges. From practicing in a high school gym with a leaky roof and no air conditioning to anxiously waiting for his name to be called at the NBA Draft, Booker’s early days were a testament to his resilience.
His dedication paid off when the Phoenix Suns selected him with the 13th pick in 2015, marking the beginning of an illustrious career that would significantly impact Arizona both on and off the court.
The Devin Booker Starting Five Program: A Commitment to Arizona’s Non–profits
In January 2019, Devin Booker made a substantial commitment to his adopted community by pledging $2.5 million to Phoenix Suns Charities, distributed over five years through the Devin Booker Starting Five program. This initiative annually recognizes five local non-profit organizations, each receiving a $100,000 grant. Booker’s involvement goes beyond just funding; he actively participates in selecting these organizations, ensuring that his contributions are impactful and meaningful.
“My favorite accomplishment of my career thus far!! Blessed to be in the position to be able to give back and make an impact here on the community in Phoenix!🙏🏽,” Booker tweeted in 2019.
Booker’s Philanthropic Journey: Yearly Impact Through Charity
Devin Booker’s philanthropic efforts can be seen through the lens of each recipient of his Starting Five initiative. Each year, Booker and the Phoenix Suns Charities Board of Directors choose five organizations that receive substantial financial support.
These organizations create videos, three to five minutes long, to showcase their projects and the expected impact, allowing Booker to connect deeply with their missions. The program has celebrated its four-year anniversary, demonstrating Booker’s sustained commitment to enriching lives across Arizona.
“It’s one of the most exciting things that I’m a part of, I’d say mostly because we’re 20 organizations in now, all non-profits here in Arizona,” Booker said after announcing the 2022 Devin Booker Starting Five grant recipients.
“We’re still trying to find creative ways to surprise the people, and to do it here on our home court in front of everybody is a special moment.”
“This is year four now and it’s something that’s here to stay. I want to thank everybody on the Phoenix Suns Charities board, including Sarah [Krahenbuhl] running it, and my brother is on the board and they’re really passionate about these projects. They do a good job of selecting the organizations that we use. We’re just trying to level the playing field for everybody and give everybody an equal chance out here. We’ve been doing a great job of that and it’s something that we want to keep doing.”
Celebrating Four Years of Giving: A Milestone in Community Service
January 2023 marked the four-year anniversary of the Devin Booker Starting Five initiative. Over this period, Booker’s program has injected $2 million into the Arizona community, supporting various projects and causes.
This milestone is not just a reflection of Booker’s generosity but also his deep connection with the Valley community he cherishes. Through his program, Booker has enabled numerous organizations to flourish, thereby significantly enhancing the quality of life in the region.
“Devin’s contributions to the community transcend the basketball court,” Sarah Krahenbuhl, Vice President, Social Responsibility & Executive Director, Phoenix Suns Charities, said.
“The Devin Booker Starting Five program has positively impacted thousands of children and families across Arizona and paved the way for a brighter future for those in need. Since arriving in the Valley, giving back to this community has been a focal point for Devin and his entire family, including his brother Davon who serves on the board of directors of Phoenix Suns Charities. We could not be more grateful for Devin and his family’s generosity.”
Previous Devin Booker Starting Five Grant Recipients:
2022
- Back to School Clothing Drive
- Homeward Bound
- Positive Coaching Alliance Arizona
- Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central and Northern Arizona
- The Be Kind People Project
2021
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona
- Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale
- Girl Scouts-Arizona Cactus-Pine Council
- Lights, Camera, Discover
- Valley of the Sun YMCA
2020
- Arizona Autism United
- Central Arizona Shelter Services
- Elevate Phoenix
- GAP Ministries
- YMCA of Southern Arizona
2019
- Ability 360
- Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
- Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center
- Special Olympics Arizona
- UMOM New Day Centers
Booker’s Approach to Philanthropy: The Secrets Behind His Success
Devin Booker’s success as a philanthropist is grounded in his authentic approach to giving. He engages personally with the projects he supports, ensuring that his contributions are not just financial but also emotional and intellectual. Booker’s keen interest in the actual implementation of the projects and their outcomes demonstrates his deep commitment to making a real difference in people’s lives.
Annual Support to Youth Organizations: Empowering the Next Generation
The Devin Booker Starting Five initiative is not just a one-off gesture but a sustained effort, committing $500,000 annually to five different youth-serving non-profit organizations in Arizona. This consistent support underscores Booker’s dedication to nurturing and empowering the younger generation, ensuring that they have the resources and opportunities to succeed and thrive.
Devin Booker’s Community Engagement: Beyond Financial Contributions
Devin Booker’s impact extends beyond financial assistance. He has been actively involved in various community activities, including treating local youth to holiday shopping sprees and contributing over $100,000 during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Moreover, as a Special Olympics Global Ambassador, Booker promotes inclusion in sports, focusing on opportunities in basketball, thus influencing countless lives beyond the basketball court.
Arizona’s NBA Scene and Booker’s Role: A Vital Piece in a Star-Studded Team
The state of Arizona could not be more excited with their hometown NBA team that is packed with three superstars, those being Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, who arrived from the Wizards and fan favorite Devin Booker. That’s why Arizona sportsbooks are running special betting bonuses.
Booker’s Legacy in Arizona: More Than Just a Basketball Player
Devin Booker’s influence in Arizona transcends his on-court achievements. His deep involvement in the community, his commitment to philanthropy, and his role as a mentor to the youth paint the picture of an athlete who is as impactful off the court as he is on it. Booker’s legacy in Arizona is defined not just by his basketball prowess but by the lives he has touched and the community he has helped build and strengthen.
Devin Booker’s Enduring Legacy in Arizona
Devin Booker’s journey from an underdog to a superstar in the NBA and a hero in the Arizona community is a story of inspiration and dedication. His commitment to giving back, empowering youth, and driving positive change in the community has cemented his place not only in the annals of sports history but also in the hearts of the people of Arizona. Devin Booker’s legacy is a testament to the power of sports to transform lives, both on and off the court.