At Elevate Phoenix, we believe in empowering urban youth to reach their full potential. It’s a mission that extends far beyond the classroom, touching on all aspects of their lives. That’s why we’re so incredibly grateful for the ongoing partnership with the Damion Lee Family Foundation and the generosity of Suns / Mercury Foundation. Their commitment to our community, demonstrated through unique and impactful programs, is truly making a difference in the lives of our students.
This month, we had the extraordinary opportunity to participate in a hands-on cooking class at the Verizon 5G Training Center, hosted by Damion Lee and his mother, Michelle Riddick, the Foundation’s Executive Director. This wasn’t just any cooking class; it was an educational experience designed to equip our high school students with the tools they need to make healthier food choices.
Michelle’s inspiration for the class stemmed from her time in Louisville, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges of food deserts. She recognized the critical need to empower young people with the knowledge to navigate nutritional labels and prepare nutritious meals. With the Damion Lee Family Foundation, they are taking direct action to combat this issue, focusing on the powerful influence young people have on their families’ eating habits.
Our students rolled up their sleeves and learned to create delicious and healthy Crunch Wraps alongside the talented Phoenix Suns Executive Chefs and Damion Lee himself. It was a dynamic and engaging experience, fostering teamwork and culinary skills while emphasizing the importance of mindful eating. Learning how to utilize a single ingredient across multiple meals is a valuable lesson that will benefit our students and their families for years to come.
This initiative goes beyond just providing a meal. It’s about fostering a deeper understanding of nutrition and empowering our students to become advocates for healthier lifestyles within their communities. The Damion Lee Family Foundation is investing in their future, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to make informed choices that will positively impact their well-being.
Furthermore, this month, thanks to the generosity of Suns / Mercury Foundation, our Maryvale Elevate Phoenix students were treated to an unforgettable experience at a Phoenix Suns game. For many of our students, this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the excitement of professional basketball firsthand. The joy and excitement on their faces were a testament to the power of sports to inspire and uplift.
These experiences, both in the kitchen and on the court, are invaluable for our students. They demonstrate that their community cares and is invested in their success. They provide opportunities for growth, learning, and connection, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.
At Elevate Phoenix, we understand that true community involvement goes beyond simply providing resources. It’s about building meaningful relationships and creating opportunities that empower young people to thrive. The partnership with the Damion Lee Family Foundation and Suns Charities exemplifies this philosophy.
We are incredibly grateful for their commitment to our students and their unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in our community. Their support is helping us to cultivate a generation of confident, resilient, and empowered young leaders who are ready to make a difference in the world. Through these initiatives, they are not only nourishing bodies but also nurturing dreams and fostering a brighter future for our students and our community as a whole.
