Jaden Akins Pledges $2 Million to Build Hope for Homeless Youth
In a bold and heartfelt move that transcends the basketball court, former Michigan State star and current NBA standout Jaden Akins has pledged $2 million toward the construction of a new transitional housing facility for homeless youth in Lansing, Michigan. The announcement came during a press conference at the Lansing Civic Center on Monday, where Akins spoke emotionally about his motivation to give back.
“This is more than just a donation—it’s a promise,” Akins said, standing beside city leaders, housing advocates, and a handful of teens currently experiencing homelessness. “A promise that no young person in this city will be forgotten, no matter their circumstances.”
The facility, titled “The Elevate Center”, will offer more than just a roof over young heads. Slated to break ground in early 2026, the center will include 40 individual transitional housing units, an on-site mental health clinic, career and academic counseling services, a full-service kitchen, and a gymnasium—something Akins insisted on including himself.
“Basketball gave me structure when my world felt unstable,” Akins shared. “I want these kids to have that same outlet, that same sense of control and self-worth.”
The Elevate Center is a collaboration between Akins’ nonprofit, the Next Step Foundation, and the Greater Lansing Housing Alliance. The facility is expected to serve up to 100 young people annually, ages 16 to 24, many of whom are aging out of the foster care system or have been displaced due to family instability.
Lansing Mayor Carmen Hightower praised Akins’ vision and commitment. “This is what true leadership looks like—using your platform, your resources, and your heart to uplift those who need it most,” she said. “Jaden isn’t just investing in a building. He’s investing in lives.”
Akins, 23, has made a name for himself on and off the court. Drafted 24th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers, the shooting guard has quickly emerged as both a reliable contributor and a vocal advocate for youth empowerment. His foundation, launched during his rookie season, focuses on education equity, mentorship, and housing stability for at-risk teens.
He recalled growing up in Farmington, Michigan, where he witnessed classmates struggle with homelessness and instability. “I saw kids sleep in cars and show up to school like nothing was wrong,” he said. “That stays with you.”
Akins’ pledge covers nearly half of the projected $4.5 million construction cost, with the remaining funding coming from state grants and private donations. In addition, Akins has committed to visiting the center regularly during the offseason, mentoring residents and running basketball clinics.
Construction is expected to begin in March 2026 and wrap by late 2027. The Elevate Center is already being described by community leaders as a “beacon of hope” and a model for how athletes can drive social change.
For Akins, it’s simple: “If one kid finds stability, finds purpose, finds hope—this will have been worth every dollar.”
Let me know if you’d like a visual graphic or a press release version of this story!
