NBA WIFES: "Behind The Bench"

1 of my only and favorite TV Shows is "THE GAME" They show the women behind the Sports Action figure HEROES... ..Usually just drink'n wine and bitching tho'. So this is such a wonderful thing 2 see as far as contributions being made in the midst of all this crisis...KILL THE VIOLENCE!! aaaahhhh The Dopeness!! The Press Release States: Phoenix, AZ Behind the Bench, The National Basketball Wives Association has donated $50K to the Arizona Foundation for Women (AFW) to assist in their continued efforts to prevent violence against women and children. 2009 Chairperson Joy Johnson said, “As chair of this year's "Touching a Life" event, I am so proud to have connected two dedicated women's organizations who diligently forged ahead on behalf of this endeavor in spite of the tough economic times that we all face. In addition, our heartfelt thanks go out to all of our patrons, for it is their generosity that has allowed both groups to continue their mission of making a difference in their communities." The gala, held as a luncheon this year, took place at the Ritz Carlton Hotel during the NBA All Star Weekend. One of the highlights of the luncheon was a fashion show sponsored by Dillard’s where Behind the Bench members walked the catwalk. In addition to the fashion show was a silent auction to assist in the fundraising efforts and a performance by Grammy-nominated recording artist Tamia. This year’s Touching a Life honorees include 2008 Olympic Gold Medalist & WNBA Champion Lisa Leslie; Carole & Bob Machiz, philanthropists who have contributed unequivocally to many worthwhile organizations in the Phoenix area; and power couple Tamia and Grant Hill, for their consistent donations to such organizations as the Ronald McDonald House, Habitat for Humanity and many others. Dr. Sheila C. Johnson, CEO Salamander Hospitality, LLC served as Honorary Chair of the event. Charrisse Jackson Jordan, President of Behind the Bench said, “We are honored to have partnered with such an amazing organization and commend them for their commitment to fulfilling the needs of the women and children it serves. It is our hope that we can enlighten others on the severity of domestic violence and child abuse and stress the importance for everyone to commit to making a difference and ‘Touching a Life’.” Each year, Behind the Bench raises thousands of dollars for deserving charitable organizations across the country which have included The Susan G. Komen Foundation, The Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Dress for Success, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Harlem Hospital, The Feed the Children Fund, The Special Olympics plus many more. Behind the Bench, The National Basketball Wives Association is an organization comprised of a diverse group of dynamic and talented wives of active and retired NBA retired players. Their mission is to enhance communities through volunteer service and to financially assist charitable organizations. The organization has contributed over $1 million to various charitable programs across the United States. http://www.behindthebench.org/