Basketball player LeBron James has proven himself to be a superstar on the court time and time again. He was even a total scene stealer in this summer's hit movie Trainwreck starring Amy Schumer. But the star also has a big heart — LeBron will provide full scholarships for University of Akron students in his "I Promise" program who meet requirements. Pretty awesome, eh? And when I say full scholarship, I mean it really is a full ride, so be jealous. This scholarship will cover four years of tuition and fees for the Ohio school, which comes out to $9,500 per year, according to ESPN.
The scholarships could benefit up to 2,300 Akron kids, and the first recipients would graduate in 2021, according to Akron Business Journal. Students must have graduated from a high school in Akron's public school system and they also have to meet certain standardized testing requirements. How cool is it that James is giving back to these kids, who are from his hometown? Especially considering that college tuition is so expensive these days. "These students have big dreams, and I'm happy to do everything I can to help them get there," James said as he announced the scholarships this week at Cedar Point Amusement Park. "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."
It's also not the first time LeBron has been a total good guy off the court. Check it out.
The LeBron James Family Foundation
James started his own charity based out of Akron right before he entered the NBA draft, according to the foundation's website. "Mom and I wanted to create a foundation that, regardless of where I was playing, would be dedicated to giving back to the community by enriching the support system that helped us along our journey," James wrote. "And today, we’re still all in!"
The foundation runs the Akron public school programs "I Promise" and "Wheels For Education" (which first started out as a bikeathon).
Boys & Girls Club Of America
Back in 2010, LeBron donated the proceeds from his special The Decision to this organization. The Decision was a special that James used to reveal that he was leaving the Cleveland Cavaliers for the Miami Heat. Currently, the LeBron James Family Foundation partners with the Boys & Girls Club.
"The Boys & Girls Club Organization is very important to me," James wrote on the foundation's website. "When I was growing up I spent a lot of time at places like Boys & Girls Clubs. These safe havens were a home away from home for me. Boys and Girls Clubs are a great place for kids to learn and grow. My Foundation and I are proud partners with BGCA!"
Apology Cupcakes
When LeBron decided to return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, it was madness in his neighborhood. As an apology, James and his people ordered nearly $2,000 worth of cupcakes for his neighbors from the shop Baker Boulevard Decadent Cupcakes, according to TMZ Sports.
He Went On Jury Duty
Even big shot athletes like James have jury duty, but not all of them are willing to serve. But James went ahead and performed his civic duty. But sadly, he was not picked for a trial.
Way to be a good citizen, LeBron.
