LeBron James pledges full college scholarships to thousands of Akron kids.
The Cleveland Cavaliers star is giving back to his hometown in a major way by offering underprivileged kids in Akron the opportunity to go to college for free.
LeBron has partnered with the University of Akron to provide 4-year scholarships to the kids in his I Promise program who qualify.
Via ESPN.com:
The scholarship will cover tuition and the university’s general service fee — currently $9,500 per year.
According to the Akron Beacon Journal, as many as 2,300 children could potentially benefit from the scholarships.
It’s the latest example of James, who often refers to himself “as just a kid from Akron,” giving back to a community that helped raise him.
“It’s the reason I do what I do,” said James, who announced the program Thursday while hosting an event for students at Cedar Point Amusement Park. “These students have big dreams, and I’m happy to do everything I can to help them get there. They’re going to have to earn it, but I’m excited to see what these kids can accomplish knowing that college is in their futures.”
The university and the LeBron James Family Foundation are still finalizing the criteria for the scholarships. The students will have to graduate from high school within Akron’s public school system, achieve standard testing requirements, and fulfill a community service obligation.
Kudos to LeBron James and the University of Akron!
The gift of an education is something no one will ever be able to take away from those kids!
