🚨 CNN VERIFIED: Michael Jordan Donates Record-Breaking $10 MILLION to Make-A-Wish Foundation — The Largest Individual Gift in the Organization’s 43-Year History
February 17th — Charlotte, NC
In a stunning act of generosity and compassion, NBA icon and global humanitarian Michael Jordan has officially made history off the court. Verified by CNN and confirmed by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Jordan has donated a record-breaking $10 million to the organization — the largest single contribution from an individual donor since its founding in 1980.
The announcement, made fittingly on Jordan’s birthday, has captured hearts around the world and reaffirmed MJ’s legacy as not just the greatest basketball player of all time, but also a towering figure in philanthropy.
“This is bigger than basketball.”
In a rare public statement accompanying the announcement, Jordan said:
> “For everything the game has given me, I’ve always wanted to give back — not just in words, but in impact. These kids are fighting battles most of us will never understand. If my support can bring even one smile or a spark of hope, then it’s worth every penny.”
Jordan, a six-time NBA champion, five-time MVP, and the cultural force behind the $5+ billion Jordan Brand, has long supported children’s health and education initiatives. But this donation shattered all previous benchmarks. The Make-A-Wish Foundation, which grants life-changing wishes to children battling critical illnesses, confirmed the impact of the gift is already being felt nationwide.
A Legacy in Action
Jordan’s connection to Make-A-Wish dates back over three decades, having personally granted over 200 wishes since his first encounter in the early 1990s — more than any other athlete in the foundation’s history. His hands-on approach with families, often conducted away from the spotlight, has earned him deep admiration within the organization.
Leslie Motter, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish America, called the donation “nothing short of transformational.”
> “Michael Jordan has been a hero to millions on the court, but what he’s done today shows the depth of his heart. This gift will allow us to expand programs, fulfill urgent wishes, and reach more children than ever before.”
The $10 million contribution will fund regional wish centers, digital expansion to reach remote communities, and the creation of the Air Jordan Dream Fund — a new initiative within Make-A-Wish that ensures children facing life-threatening illnesses can receive customized experiences based on their passions, regardless of location or circumstance.
A Wave of Emotional Reactions
News of the donation swept across social media, with hashtags like #MJGivesBack, #GOATOnAndOffTheCourt, and #MakeAWishMiracle trending globally. NBA stars, former teammates, and celebrities joined the wave of gratitude:
Magic Johnson tweeted: “This is why Michael will always be the GOAT. Championships fade, but changing lives? That lasts forever.”
Steph Curry shared: “Inspired. Motivated. Grateful to witness a legend move with purpose.”
A former Make-A-Wish recipient, now a college student, wrote: “Michael Jordan gave me the strength to fight my illness when I was 10. Today, he’s giving that gift to thousands more. Thank you, MJ.”
Impact That Will Echo for Generations
Experts estimate the donation could help fulfill more than 2,500 wishes over the next five years — giving children moments of joy, escape, and belief in their futures. With this latest act of service, Jordan proves once again that greatness is about more than records and rings — it’s about people.
And as the world celebrates His Airness on his birthday, this moment cements his legacy not just in basketball history, but in humanity.
Michael Jordan didn’t just raise the bar. He became the bar.
