In 2018, James’ I Promise School opened: it now has more than 450 students in 3rd through 6th grade, and students and their families receive access to services outside the classroom like medical care and mental-health support. High school students who are part of his “I Promise” program are offered the opportunity to attend the University of Akron and Kent State University for free. I Promise students and staff members recently appeared as the backdrop of a Wheaties box with James.
This is a different kind of Wheaties box. Our latest cover features the @ipromiseschool, founded by @ljfamfoundation. Visit the link in our bio to learn about how they are revolutionizing education and creating opportunities in @kingjames hometown of Akron, OH. pic.twitter.com/3hvjuv8FEo
— Wheaties (@wheaties) October 23, 2020
James, however, refuses to be complacent. “I said, ‘OK, what more can we do?’” says James.
On Tuesday, the world will find out: the LeBron James Family Foundation (LJFF) plans to announce the latest step in its efforts to transform Akron: a 60,000-square-foot venue, called House Three Thirty—a nod to the city’s area code—which promises to offer a variety of services and opportunities, such as financial-literacy advice, job training and recreational activities for area youth. The foundation says these and other House Three Thirty amenities, like a dining space, coffee bar and private card room, will be available to the entire Akron community. “House 330 is going to be a sanctuary for our families,” says James. “It’s going to be a place where all our families can grow and learn. This will be a hub for everything possible our families will need.” According to LJFF, the facility should be fully up and running in 2022.
