Magic Johnson Helps Raise Record $815,000 for Denver Organization
Most people know Earvin “Magic” Johnson as one of the most legendary basketball stars to ever take the court but he is also making powerful moves in other ways, especially when it comes to helping raise money for the underserved. He does this through his own organization, the Magic Johnson Foundation, but non-profits like Denver-based Jewish Family Services also hire the star as a motivational speaker to fundraise for their target demographic. Good move because by the events end at total of $815,000 was raised, making this their most successful fundraiser yet. The event was held in Denver on May 7 held at the Hyatt Regency Denver.
The goal of JFS is to help those in need in metro Denver and Boulder. Right now, that means more than 25,000 people of all ages, faiths, incomes and abilities can receive mental health counseling, employment services, food and financial aid, help with developmental disabilities and elderly people are able receive support for in home care.
When looking for a speaker for the next event JFS narrowed in on Johnson because he also has a passion to help those in vulnerable situations. “Legacy isn’t how much money you make, it’s how many people you help,” Johnson said to open is speech. He knows what it’s like to grown up in tough circumstances. His father worked for General Motors in Michigan to raise 10 kids. Inspired by his work ethic, Johnson took those skills and 6 foot 9 inch frame to the court to dominate championships and become on the most recognized NBA players. Post NBA, he is a businessman (Major League Baseball team owner and possibly NFL to come) entrepreneur and philanthropist.
Johnson is now making sure to connect with kids at a young age, which he was quick to do at the luncheon, calling a few on stage to tell them how important it is to be a leader before sending them back to their seats with a chest bump. He has also partnered with Starbucks to help redevelop communities. And when asked if he would ever consider running for office in California, he said “no” because that would take him away from his main passion of raising money for organizations. Which to him, isn’t just about raising but also giving- Johnson ended the speech with a bidding war for a Grand Prize- for jerseys from Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, and his own as well as 7 seats to the Lakers game and dinner with Magic if he is in town. He then contributed $25,000 of his own.
