#United States #Oakland #Realize the Dream #Eat. Learn. Play.

Stephen and Ayesha Curry Join Forces with MLK Family for Community Impact

In a remarkable union aimed at fostering community service and empowering youth in Oakland, Stephen and Ayesha Curry's foundation, Eat. Learn. Play., has partnered with Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King. This vital collaboration kicked off with a transformative service day at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School, marking a new chapter in the mission to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.

On September 2, 2025, the Currys were named Chief Dream Ambassadors of the Realize the Dream initiative, unveiling a pledge of an astounding 100,000 volunteer hours dedicated to uplifting Oakland's youth. This commitment is part of a broader ambition to mobilize 100 million hours of service by 2029, a pivotal year that celebrates the 100th anniversary of Dr. King's birth.

The partnership not only underscores the Currys' enduring commitment to their hometown but also aligns with Realize the Dream's vision, which aims to create a network of service that transforms communities across the country. Stephen and Ayesha expressed their heartfelt sentiments about the initiative, emphasizing, "Oakland has always held a very special place in our hearts. We believe deeply in the power of service to create lasting change."

During the service day, volunteers came together to reinvent MLK Elementary, transforming it into an engaging environment for children. This site is particularly meaningful as it holds a historic connection; Coretta Scott King visited the school back in 1972, intertwining the legacies of the Kings with the community. The project saw the installation of new playgrounds designed by children, multi-sport courts, soccer goals, vibrant murals, and gardens that enhance outdoor learning experiences.

The event highlighted the impact of sharing communal spaces and investing in youth. Chris Helfrich, Executive Director of Eat. Learn. Play., shared, "We are turning Dr. King's dream into action that empowers the next generation," emphasizing the essential role of community involvement in achieving these goals.

Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King articulated the profound significance of service, stating, "Service is not charity. It is the work of justice and the pathway to the Beloved Community." Their collaborative work not only strengthens neighborhoods but also promotes safe spaces for every child to learn and play.

Eat. Learn. Play. previously engaged over 4,000 volunteers who contributed more than 30,000 service hours, underlining the effectiveness of hands-on community support. With this new partnership, the mission has expanded; the Currys and their volunteers now have deeper connections with Oakland's youth and families, bridging local action with a nationwide call for service.

The Path Forward

As the partnership evolves, the focus remains on creating meaningful, lasting change. The efforts at MLK Elementary reflect a strategic long-term investment in Oakland's youth, fostering an environment where children can access nutritious food, safe play areas, and quality education. This vision is crucial in driving a collective movement that honors Dr. King’s teachings and legacy.

The Realize the Dream initiative, bolstered by the leadership of the King family, mobilizes individuals and organizations across the nation to serve, thereby building a culture of empathy and connection. Together, the Currys and the King family encourage a nationwide conversation around civic engagement, promoting the idea that every service hour counts toward a greater cause.

Stephen and Ayesha Curry’s impactful pledge amplifies the message that community service is essential in encouraging the next generation. With each volunteer hour contributed, they are setting a standard for how collective efforts can lead to significant societal shifts.

The partnership is not just a local initiative; it embodies a national challenge to engage in service that upholds the values of justice, equity, and community, paving the way for a brighter future for children in Oakland and beyond. As we move toward 2029, the hope is that more communities will embrace this model of service, honoring Dr. King by working collaboratively to build a more inclusive and supportive society for all.