It’s #GivingTuesday 2021, and Nike has awarded All Star Code with a $500,000 grant.
The leading computer science nonprofit, also known as ASC, reported in a press release provided to AfroTech that this is the largest single donation it has received since its founding in 2013. The organization plans to use the grant award to scale its web development and leadership training programs for young minority men.
“Addressing systemic racism in America requires urgent action and sustained engagement – and Nike is committed to both,” All Star Code Executive director Danny Rojas said in a press release. “We are so proud to be a part of this commitment and thankful to Nike for their fervent support.”
ASC runs a free, six-week education program over the summer that’s supported by leading tech companies including Google and AT&T.
The generous gift is part of Nike’s Black Community Commitment, which focuses on supporting organizations that center their work on social justice, education and addressing racial inequality in the U.S. Nike announced this 10-year commitment last year alongside Converse, The Jordan Brand and Michael Jordan, who are promising to invest a combined $140 million. Nike’s Black Community Commitment program has also made investments in Black Girl Ventures, Black Girls CODE, National Urban League and more.
“This commitment is not just about lending transactional support, it’s about engaging with Nike employees and partnering with organizations to optimize and accelerate processes to achieve transformational outcomes – including dismantling racial structures and positively impacting policy,” Rojas said in a statement.
