Make-A-Wish America received the largest individual donation in its history when Michael Jordan gave $10 million in honor of his 60th birthday.
The legendary athlete turns 60 years old on Feb. 17, and has supported the wish-granting charity for more than 30 years, according to Make-A-Wish.
“For the past 34 years, it’s been an honor to partner with Make-A-Wish and help bring a smile and happiness to so many kids,” Jordan said in a statement. “Witnessing their strength and resilience during such a tough time in their lives has truly been an inspiration.”
Since granting his first wish in 1989, Jordan has met children the world over as one of the organization’s most requested celebrities. In 2008, Jordan was named Make-A-Wish Chief Wish ambassador.
“Everyone knows about Michael’s legacy on the basketball court, but it’s what he has consistently done off the court when no one’s watching that makes him a true legend for wish families and the wider Make-A-Wish community,” said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. “Jordan’s donation will be used to create an endowment that will fund wishes for critically ill children. Michael using his birthday as a chance to make history for Make-A-Wish speaks to the quality of his character and his loyal dedication to making life better for children with critical illnesses,” Motter said.
