Jazz's Williams receives award for community service

New York—Deron Williams of the Utah Jazz has been named the recipient of the NBA Cares Community Assist Award for November. The honor recognizes Williams' outstanding efforts in the community and his ongoing philanthropic and charitable work. On Thanksgiving eve, Williams and his nonprofit Point of Hope Foundation played host to a special holiday dinner for more than 3,300 Salt Lake City residents in need at EnergySolutions Arena. In collaboration with the Salt Lake City Mission and Utah Food Services, Deron and his wife, Amy, rolled up their sleeves and served a full Thanksgiving meal to children and families, complete with live music. "There are so many different causes, so many different diseases, so many people who have problems," said Williams of his foundation's broad reach. "Point of Hope is just about helping people, and kids, especially. I'm blessed to be able to give back." Point of Hope, launched by Williams in 2007, seeks to improve the quality of life for children and families year round. Proceeds from all of the foundation's events support programs and organizations dedicated to helping people in need. Earlier this month, Williams and his wife hosted their annual Christmas Dinner for single mothers and their children and provided gifts to the families using funds that were raised during previous charity events. Williams, who was raised by a single mother, understands the hardships that these families face and established this annual event to help brighten their holidays. The Point of Hope Foundation has funded dozens of programs since its establishment. These programs provide much-needed resources to children and families, such as grants to support medical research for juvenile diabetes, autism, and a number of in-house programs, all to make a difference for those most in need. As an NBA Cares Community Assist Award recipient, Williams will receive the David Robinson Plaque with the inscription, "Following the standard set by NBA Legend David Robinson who improved the community piece by piece." In addition, the NBA will donate $5,000 to the Point of Hope Foundation on Williams' behalf. The league presents the NBA Cares Community Assist Award monthly throughout the season and once following each offseason to recognize players for their year-round charitable efforts. The award honors the NBA player who best reflects the passion that the league and its players have for giving back to their communities.