LeBron James Took 5,000 Akron Kids to an Amusement Park

*NBA Champ LeBron James surprised 5,000 kids and their families on his annual trip to Cedar Point amusement park in Sandusky, Ohio as part of James’ “I Promise” education initiative. As Huff Post notes, the program offers after-school activities, mentorship opportunities, and provides scholarships to high school graduates.

According to Ohio.com:

The trip to Cedar Point — now in its second year — marks the beginning of a partnership between James and a new third-grade class to encourage the youngsters to work hard and stay in school. The young students eventually graduate into the Akron I Promise initiative, which provides Akron school kids mentoring and encouragement to continue to work toward good grades and attend classes.

The 31-year-old recently announced on behalf of his foundation that he has partnered with the University of Akron to provide full scholarships to 1,100 children who are currently in his “I Promise” program starting in 2021.

He told ESPN, “As a kid growing up in the inner city and as an African American kid, you don’t really think past high school because it’s not possible or your family can’t support you. For us to be able to do something like this … it means so much.”

No one can ever say that LeBron doesn’t inspire many, including other athletes, to step up and give back to their communities.

As part of his efforts to encourage kids to go to school, the Cavaliers star said that he sends out recorded messages to kids when they skip class or are struggling in the classroom.

In an appearance on “The Daily Show,” LeBron said: “I know kids that would get slick and try to miss a couple of days of school because they want the message from LeBron James so I’ll show up at the school and say ‘I know what you’re trying.’ I was a kid at one point.”

Meanwhile, James will be guest-starring on Jesse Williams’ podcast streaming on LeBron’s new digital platform.