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Established in 2005, The Carmelo Anthony Foundation is the vehicle by which Carmelo and his family give back to the community through a variety of outreach programs and donations. The Foundation's mission is to invest in programs, leaders and community organizations that empower and provide opportunities for underserved children and families in Carmelo’s home communities.
The Foundation recently hosted its annual “A Very Melo Christmas” events in Denver and Baltimore. Melo launched the holiday tradition after joining the Nuggets in 2003.
On December 18th, Melo hosted 50 children at the Pepsi Center in Denver for a holiday party that included cookie decorating, having their pictures taken with Melo, interacting the Nuggets’ Dance Team and more. Each child also received a special gift from Melo.
“A Very Melo Christmas” in Baltimore took place on December 20th as Melo’s mother, Mary, oversaw a day full of activities. The event began with a tour of the National Aquarium that included an animal encounter and a special movie screening of the Polar Express. The Aquarium donated admission to the attraction and the movie tickets for the event. Thanks to Nelson Publishing, each child also received an animated children’s book. The festivities continued at the Warehouse at Camden Yards where Aramark provided a hearty lunch, holiday gifts and more. The Orioles also gave each child a backpack and the Oriole Bird, dressed as Santa, entertained the children. A Special thanks to H B Tours & Travel for providing transportation for the day.
“This is a very special time of year and it’s important to me that children have an opportunity to fully enjoy the holiday,” said Melo. “I’m thankful to the many organizations who helped my Foundation present these two great events.”
CLICK HERE for pictures from both events.
In addition to his status as a superstar on the basketball court, Carmelo excels off the court in his efforts to improve communities and positively impact the way of life for disadvantaged children and families through his philanthropic efforts. The Giving Back Fund is the premier philanthropic resource for the sports and entertainment communities. In 2006, the organization named Carmelo eighth on a list of 30 celebrity philanthropists in America in their “The Giving Back 30” report. He was the only basketball player on this list, and was joined in the top tier by celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey and Tiger Woods. Carmelo was recognized for making charitable donations in excess of $4 million for projects in his hometown of Baltimore, Maryland and Syracuse, New York.
