On Thursday, December 29, the Golden State Warriors and ZTE USA hosted 10 students from the A. Philip Randolph Institute in San Francisco’s Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood for a shopping spree at the Target store in Alameda. Surprising the students from behind the store was 6’9” Warriors Forward Kevon Looney, who passed out custom-made Warriors jerseys and Target gift cards for each youth.
“I’m happy to be here at Target for a shopping spree and thankful to ZTE for putting this event on,” said Looney. “This [event] is part of the Season of Giving, so it’s been a lot of fun to speak to these kids, who are around my age, to talk about how school is going and what they’re doing in the community.”
The 10 participating young men and women are affiliated with the A. Philip Randolph Institute of San Francisco, a non-profit organization committed to supporting racial equality and economic justice for Bayview-Hunters Point residents through civic participation. The students, currently enrolled in high school or college, were selected for their outstanding leadership and involvement in community programs and initiatives.
“It’s always great to give back during the holidays, it’s great to put smiles on their faces,” said Looney. “Some aren’t as fortunate as others, so I admire young people who see it’s important to give back to their community, connect with great people and have fun.”
After a group photo, Looney spent time with each student walking through the Target aisles, searching for chargers and battery packs to stay connected, business clothing and shoes for upcoming job interviews, snacks to stay fueled between classes and gifts for loved ones.
“These young men and women have committed so much time and effort to our organization over the last year,” said A. Philip Randolph Institute of San Francisco Executive Director Jacqueline Flin. “Teenagers are often forgotten during the holiday season, so the gifts purchased today will make a big difference to them and really prepare them for their high school and college endeavors.”
While shopping, Looney and the students connected over their current school studies, career plans and mutual interests such as basketball and video games. The students then made their way to the checkout counter as Looney signed autographs, posed for Snapchat photos and shared holiday well-wishes.
“Thanks to the Warriors’ generous spirit and the ZTE team, I had a really memorable shopping experience and a great time with Kevon,” said Sierra Bourne.
In addition to the $200 shopping spree, each student also received a Warriors Season of Giving holiday gift bag, courtesy of ZTE.
Thursday’s shopping spree was part of the Warriors Season of Giving community outreach initiative, as Warriors players and coaches hosted events throughout the months of November and December to brighten the lives of Bay Area families and youth.