Dirk Nowitzki is about to turn thirty. He’s been a Dallas Mavericks and international basketball superstar for over a decade now and he continues to live his dream. In December 2007, Nowitzki won the NBA Community Assist Award, recognizing Dirk’s outstanding contributions off the court.

Dirk has been blessed with many talents, but he’s very aware that not all people, all kids, are given equal opportunities. That’s why he created the Dirk Nowitzki Foundation; an organization aimed at helping to give a fair start to children that live with challenges.

Dallas is very fortunate to have Dirk for many reasons and the feeling’s seems mutual. Last year, the Dirk Nowitzki Foundation provided funding for a new playground at Family Place, a transitional housing venue whose mission is aimed at helping people who are or have been homeless or are victims of family violence.

Also in 2007, funding was granted by the Nowitzki Foundation for The Altrusa Club of Dallas Foundation’s DUNK (Dallas Uniforms for Needy Kids) project. This enabled Dallas students to be given clear backpacks containing new school uniforms, school supplies, books, and other necessities.

Play therapy for homeless children is another beneficiary of Dirk’s Foundation. Vogel Alcove of Dallas strives to improve the lives of children who have experienced trauma caused by domestic violence, homelessness, abuse and neglect. Vogel Alcove helps about 100 kids yearly (ages 2-6) in the Dallas area.