Aug. 15, 2008

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Former Georgetown center Alonzo Mourning earned the NBA Community Assist Award for July, in recognition of his outstanding efforts in the community and for his ongoing philanthropic and charitable work. This marks the second time Mourning has earned the award, with the last being July 2006.

Mourning received the honor in large part due to the success of his 12 annual "Zo's Summer Groove," held last month in Miami, Florida.

"My passion and commitment to provide kids with the tools they need to succeed is as strong as when I started Alonzo Mourning Charities in 1997," Mourning told NBA.com. "Zo's Summer Groove, our largest fundraiser, has truly been a fun, community-centered effort that provides many programs with the financial support needed to make education a priority."

Since 1997, Mourning's foundation, AM Charities, has raised over $6.5 million for programs that aid in the development of children and their families. The support has helped create programs and youth enrichment centers that promote positive change in low socioeconomic communities.

For more information about Alonzo Mourning Charities visit www.amcharities.org.