While the Boston Celtics are gearing up for Game 2 against the Orlando Magic, starting point guard Jrue Holiday is being recognized for his talents off the court. Holiday was named a finalist for the NBA Social Justice Champion Award, a recognition that underscores his profound impact during the game and in the community.
This nomination follows his extraordinary $5 million pledge in 2020, a selfless act that continues to fuel meaningful change in underserved communities.
What Is Jrue Holiday’s Social Impact Fund?
Holiday, alongside his wife Lauren, a former U.S. Women’s National Team soccer player, committed the remainder of his 2020 NBA salary to the Jrue and Lauren Holiday Social Impact Fund (JLH Fund). Their vision was clear: to combat systemic racism and socioeconomic inequality by providing direct funding and resources to Black-owned businesses, non-profit organizations, and initiatives to create equitable outcomes.
Since 2020, the JLH Fund has donated over $5.3 million in grants to over 200 businesses in underrepresented communities. The impact spans various sectors, from bolstering Black-led non-profits and HBCUs to empowering small businesses in cities like Los Angeles, New Orleans, and Boston—communities with deep personal significance to the Holiday family.
Most recently, the JLH Fund demonstrated its agility and commitment by mobilizing its resources to aid families suffering from the devastating Los Angeles wildfires earlier this year. This swift response highlights the fund’s dedication to addressing immediate needs while maintaining its long-term focus on systemic change.
Holiday also uses his voice. He’s a board member of the National Basketball Social Justice Coalition, where he works with players, coaches, and NBA leaders to advocate for policy changes and other advocacy efforts.
NBA Social Justice Champion Will Receive $100,000
The NBA Social Justice Champion Award recognizes players who embody the league’s commitment to social justice, equity, and inclusion. Holiday’s unwavering dedication, amplified by his transformative $5 million gesture, makes him a compelling candidate for this prestigious honor.
The winner, to be announced during the NBA playoffs, will receive $100,000 from the NBA to further support a justice-focused organization of their choosing. This is a testament to the enduring ripple effect of Holiday’s initial act of generosity.
The other finalists for the award are Bam Adebayo of the Miami Heat, Harrison Barnes of the San Antonio Spurs, CJ McCollum of the New Orleans Pelicans, and Chris Boucher of the Toronto Raptors.
Previous Social Justice Champion Award winners include Carmelo Anthony, Reggie Bullock, Stephen Curry, and Karl Anthony-Towns.
