WNBA Chicago Sky

Chicago Sky Forward Candice Dupree Recieves WNBA Cares Community Assist Award forr July

August 18, 2009 - Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA)
Chicago Sky News Release


NEW YORK, Aug. 18, 2009 - The WNBA today honored Chicago Sky forward Candice Dupree's commitment to the community with its Community Assist Award for July. In addition to her individual outreach efforts, Dupree plays a lead role in supporting the team's community initiatives, including education, health and wellness programs, and hands-on community clean-up projects.

In July, Dupree spent time with pediatric patients at the University of Illinois Medical Center in an effort to bring them hope, joy, and a little fun while they faced challenging illnesses. She played games and created arts and crafts with the children and presented each youngster with autographed Sky memorabilia and tickets to an upcoming game.

"The kids here are so outgoing and excited to spend time with us. These are the things I love to do," said Dupree during her visit to the medical center. "I am happy to provide them a break from focusing on their illnesses and allow them to just be kids."

Throughout the month of July, Dupree and her teammates hosted several community outreach events. As part of Toyota Project Rebound, the Sky refurbished the basketball court at Hirsch High School. Following the dedication ceremony, she spoke to students about the important role that education has played in getting her where she is today and then treated the group to a basketball clinic on the new court.

That same month, the Sky held an outdoor clean-up day to beautify Kelvyn Park, one of Chicago's oldest parks. In addition to clearing brush and landscaping, Dupree lent her creativity and personal touch to the project by designing a number of sidewalk games to provide local youngsters with a way to have fun while being active. On July 31, as part of the WNBA and Pitney Bowes Fast Break To Reading program, Dupree wrapped-up her busy month by hosting a reading timeout for youngsters. At the event, she read one of her favorite books to the group while encouraging them to develop a love for reading. The Fast Break To Reading program was established by the WNBA and Pitney Bowes in an effort to encourage students to read throughout the summer.

The WNBA Community Assist Award is presented monthly to the player who best reflects the league's passion for making a difference in the community. In recognition of Dupree's charitable efforts, the WNBA will donate $5,000 to the Children's Home & Aid Society on her behalf.

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