Inspired by his mother’s work to improve the lives of disadvantaged women and families, Isiah Thomas founded Mary’s Court in her honor. The foundation supports the health, safety and personal achievement of Chicago’s youth as well as youth around the country. Mary’s Court works to provide opportunities to families and empowers children to reach their full potential as healthy and educated members of their community.

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Founder Isiah Thomas has a passion for giving back to at-risk, economically disadvantaged and underprivileged youth, leaving a legacy behind as a community hero.He grew up below the poverty line and had little advantage in life other than a mother who fought hard for her kids. As someone he self-describes as “blessed to have graduated from every level of his educational experience,” Isiah understands both the power and promise of an unflappable foundation. He recognizes that he was very fortunate in his academic and athletic endeavors, but realizes too many other poor youth and black athletes have a very different trajectory. The programs Isiah has started with Mary’s Court all aim to provide and motivate youth and families to live healthy, safe and educated lives. We seek to achieve our mission of providing quality enrichment services to Chicago’s youth and families. By enhancing youths’ access to academic enrichment programs and recreation we hope to improve the health and well-being of children and families; encourage kids to live healthy and more active lives; improve the academic success of every child; and use sports as a catalyst promote team interaction, build leadership skills and unify the community.