Sixers Youth Foundation Raises Funds for Youth Programs

The Sixers Youth Foundation hosted its annual fundraising gala on Thursday, March 26, to support sports programs and activities for Philadelphia youth. This red-carpet, star-studded event was held at The Fillmore in Fishtown.

Since its founding in 2015, the nonprofit has funded court refurbishments, basketball clinics, and educational initiatives that have benefited thousands of local youth. Proceeds from the gala aim to sustain and expand the foundation's mission through additional programs and outreach.

Urban Promise's Tam Do highlights how the Sixers support influences kids' worldviews and sense of community.

"I think kids are blown away by what the Sixers have to offer to know that organizations like the Sixers support them, and what's in their community, it allows them to open their worldview," Do told CBS Philadelphia.

"We have great fans," Marjorie Harris, co-founder of the Sixers Youth Foundation, said to CBS Philadelphia. "This is a great city, and to be able to do this with them is really special."

The gala featured live and silent auctions, including items like a Tyrese Maxey autographed All-Star ball and a Jack Hughes-signed Olympic jersey. It also offered attendees opportunities to interact with players off the court, letting fans catch a glimpse of players' and coaches' personalities.

"You have to show up. The youth is the future, obviously, so it's easy to pour into them, the same way I would pour into my kids," Sixers forward Paul George told CBS Philadelphia.

"I have been raising money for kids in Philly, and I am from Philly, so it's good to give back," Sixers forward Justin Edwards commented.