LA Laker Tarik Black establishes foundation and basketball camp.

Transforming lives through community service is one focus of the newly established Tarik Black Foundation. The Memphis native is the definition of a success story. Most are aware of Black’s abilities on the basketball court but few know just how serious he takes education and giving back to his community.

The Los Angeles Lakers Power Forward/Center launched the Tarik Black Foundation in January of this year. “Through positive mentorship, we’re striving to inspire underserved youth to become visionaries,” says Black. “We want to encourage them to explore and engage beyond where they are today. The foundation will be looking for ways to partner with other organizations and agencies that align with our mission. We are hoping local companies and agencies will work with us to offer character-building programs that give youth positive life skills and memorable experiences through athletic, health, education and social programs,” said Black, who serves as Chief Executive Officer for the foundation.

Judith Black Moore, mother of Tarik Black, will serve as President of the foundation. She will run the day-to-day activities of the foundation and work with Black and the Board of Directors on new programs.

“The vision for this foundation is one that my mother and I have shared since I dreamed of playing at the NBA level. I’ve been blessed to experience my dream, so I want to do my part in transforming young lives in the Memphis community and anywhere I go I’m committed to my hometown, though, so my foundation is here where my mother will take the lead in executing my vision,” said Black.

The first foundation program is the TRANSFORMATION50 Basketball and Life Skills Camp. It will take place in Memphis, July 10-13, 2017. This program is targeting boys between the ages of 11-15. Coaches will recommend players for this camp that will accept 50 players this year. The nomination packets should be received by April 1, 2017.

This basketball camp will be unlike most camps wherein basketball skills are secondary, he plans to teach these students life skills such as financial responsibility, proper etiquette, and conflict resolution.

About theTarik Black Foundation

The Tarik Black Foundation was founded by National Basketball Association player and Los Angeles Laker Tarik Black. The Memphis native, who graduated from Ridgeway High School, received his undergraduate degree from the University of Memphis and his master’s degree from the University of Kansas. The Tarik Black Foundation, headquartered in Black’s hometown, Memphis, TN, provides programs and recognizes causes that help bring about positive change in communities. The foundation is managed by Judith Black Moore who serves as president and oversees day-to-day operations.