September 29, 2007 - John Thompson III Foundation Celebrates Inaugural Fundraising Weekend

The John Thompson III Foundation celebrated its inaugural fundraising weekend, which included participation in a Congressional Black Caucus celebrity panel, a community day in Southeast and a star-studded gala on the evening of Saturday, September 29, 2007.

Coach John Thompson III, along with Alonzo Mourning, Darrell Green and others, shared their visions of philanthropy at a brain trust hosted by Congresswoman Diane Watson at the Congressional Black Caucus’ Annual Legislative Conference. Coach Thompson spoke about the foundation he and his wife established to assist the work of non-profits that focus on the health and education needs of children.

On Saturday afternoon, the JT III Foundation hosted a community day at the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center and Oxon Run Park at Mississippi Avenue, SE. Activities included information on health screenings, secondary education, voting rights and job skills; a basketball clinic, crafts, food and fun. The afternoon culminated in a concert by the legendary Chuck Brown.

That evening’s gala featured spectacular honorees, and an evening of elegance with songstress Nancy Wilson. Foundation supporters included Honorary Chair, Ted Leonsis, Alonzo Morning, Shelia Johnson, Abe Pollin, Nike, Inc. and Master of Ceremonies Leon Harris of WJLA News.

The highlight of the gala was the special induction of the 2007 Julius Wyatt Award Honoree recipient. This year’s Wyatt Award recipient was John Thompson Jr., former coach of the Georgetown Hoyas and Sports Talk 980 Commentator. Additional honorees include the Foundation’s 2007 Partners the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, the Capital Breast Care Center, Southeast Tennis and Learning Center and the Washington Jesuit Academy.

More Photos