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September 16, 2008

MILWAUKEE -- Bucks forward Charlie Villanueva has been named the recipient of the NBA Community Assist Award for August, in recognition of his outstanding efforts in the community and for his ongoing philanthropic and charitable work. This marks the second time that Villanueva has been named the recipient of the NBA Community Assist Award. He last won the honor in February 2006.

Villanueva is being honored, in part, for the launch of Tenis Para Niño’s (Sneakers for Kids), a collaborative footwear donation project developed by The Charlie Villanueva Foundation in partnership with Crocs, Inc. and SolesUnitedSM. Through the program, Villanueva distributed 10,000 pairs of recycled footwear to children throughout impoverished regions of the Dominican Republic during the month of August in an effort to contribute to better health conditions and quality of life. Following the event, Villanueva hosted a free basketball camp for hundreds of Dominican youth.

“While I’ve enjoyed participating in many community initiatives over the years, I feel that this project is particularly special,” said Villanueva. “Almost half of all families living in the Dominican Republic struggle to obtain basic necessities. I am thrilled that this program brought shoes to people who truly need them.”

Villanueva started the Charlie Villanueva Foundation in 2005, and it supports dozens of youth organizations, particularly those dedicated to eliminating bullying through educational programs. He also serves as spokesperson for the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF). As someone who suffers from Alopecia Areata, Villanueva has made it his mission to be a voice for youth affected by the autoimmune disease. Throughout the season, he holds pre-game meet and greets with children who have the disease, in addition to participating in many other outreach initiatives as NAAF spokesperson.

As the August NBA Community Assist Award recipient, Villanueva will receive the David Robinson Plaque, with the inscription, “Following the standard set by NBA Legend David Robinson who improved the community piece by piece.” In addition, the NBA will give a $5,000 donation to The Charlie Villanueva Foundation.

The league presents the NBA Community Assist Award monthly to recognize players for their charitable efforts. The award honors the NBA player who best reflects the passion that the league and its players have for giving back to their communities.