Magic Center announced at its second annual TopGolf fundraiser that it will launch an aviation-based program at a local high school.
ORLANDO – Wendell Carter Jr., now in his sixth NBA season, has learned throughout his basketball career that it is essential to be surrounded by other people who hold each other accountable and encourage each other . Without this kind of camaraderie, support and positive energy, a team could easily fall apart.
That hasn’t been a problem this season for the Orlando Magic, who are nine games above .500 and optimistic about their playoff spot. Magic players have repeatedly said throughout the year that this team has a very strong bond, which is noticeable on the field.
Carter, 24, used his social platform to convey this message. Most important to him is that he wants children to understand the importance of associating with people who bring positive energy into their lives. By doing so, it increases the chances of achieving their goals.
“It doesn’t work if everyone isn’t on the same page, and in my opinion that goes for everything in life,” he said. “You’re in the community, you have family, you have friends – you know you can work together to relieve each other’s stress. »
This was highlighted at Carter’s second annual TopGolf fundraiser on Monday, March 11, which raised awareness of his nonprofit program, A Platform.2 Foundation, which provides young people and families with educational programs, resources and tools to have a positive impact and improve their quality of life. The overall goal of the foundation is to create a learning environment that develops knowledgeable youth and families who will impact and actively engage in their community. The program’s focus areas are STEM, financial literacy, African American history, social injustice and equality awareness.
During the event, which included rounds of golf at the booth, food and a silent auction, the 6-foot-10, 265-pounder made a big announcement that he would be launching a brand new program. aviation-based studies at nearby Evans High School.
When he was a child, Carter aspired to become a pilot. Although this remains one of his interests to this day, which is why he decided to start this youth program, he has outgrown himself to pursue this path. There are height requirements when it comes to flying a plane.
But now he will have the opportunity to help others who share the same passion for aviation discover this field and perhaps one day work in it themselves.
“I think that’s what makes people with a platform special,” he said. “It’s one thing to have a platform and to go out there and worry about yourself, 24/7. I think to make that big leap as a person, you’re capable to bring someone else with you. Whether it’s one person or 100 people, if I’m able to touch the lives of the community who come from similar backgrounds to me, it simply means the world to me.
Carter, who is now the first professional athlete to begin a school program, learned at a young age from his parents the importance of philanthropy. That’s why he created the A Platform² foundation when he entered the NBA. Since then, he has led numerous community initiatives, including providing Title 1 schools and students with equipment to enhance STEM Aviation programs in Orlando and Atlanta; provide guidance to Boys to Men mentorship members; running basketball camps; and distribute holiday meals and gifts to families.
“It’s kind of the foundation of what we do,” said Kylia Carter, Carter’s mother. “There is an absolute value in us to help others, especially those you can reach. If you can reach someone, you can help someone.
Carter’s efforts through his foundation have been recognized and celebrated by both community and leadership. In 2023, he was named a recipient of the Rich & Helen DeVos Community Enrichment Award. He was also a finalist for this honor in 2022 and 2024. Also in 2023, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer presented Carter with the President’s Volunteer Service Award, a recognition that highlights his impact on the local community and its commitment to creating positive change.
Key partners at Monday’s TopGolf event included AdventHealth, Lift Sports Management, Magic and Rise Capital Family Office.
In 38 games so far this season, Carter is averaging 11.6 points on 53.3 percent shooting overall and a career-best 40.5 percent on 3-pointers. He also recorded his double-doubles this year, notably in Orlando’s last game against the Indiana Pacers where he had 13 points and 15 rebounds.
