Lynx player Candice Wiggins honored with WNBA Cares Community Assist Award for July 2012
From the WNBA:
The WNBA today honored Minnesota Lynx guard Candice Wiggins’ commitment to the community with its WNBA Cares Community Assist Award for July. Wiggins continues to assume a leadership role off the court in the team’s community outreach programs, while continuing to support health-related issues though her work with “Greater Than AIDS.” This marks Wiggins’ second Community Assist Award, having previously been honored in 2008.
Wiggins’ personal connection to HIV/AIDS makes her a strong advocate for awareness and prevention. Wiggins participated in the team’s official HIV/AIDS Awareness night, where she spoke to fans and supporters emphasizing the importance of being tested. Wiggins shared her personal story with the group and how it has impacted her life. In addition to the team event, she works closely with the “Greater Than AIDS” movement year-round, and is routinely involved in national programs affiliated with this cause.
“I think it’s just being educated about yourself, about your health, and taking pride in that,” Wiggins said. “I think a bracelet is just a way to add yourself to the community. Even if you don’t want to contribute that way, just really going out there and being knowledgeable about AIDS/HIV. Understanding the statistics, getting tested, and just really being more sympathetic to the people who are living with HIV/AIDS.”
In addition to her efforts through the team’s community outreach initiatives, Wiggins continues to make an impact away from the basketball court. She participated in a Memorial Blood Center blood drive, where she spent the afternoon visiting with donors and encouraging others to donate their blood. Wiggins strives to inspire others to live and maintain a healthy lifestyle while balancing the demands of being a professional athlete.
Wiggins’ outreach efforts also included hosting her own camp in Fort Wayne, Ind., where she taught kids the fundamentals of basketball. Understanding the importance of being a positive role model for young children, she spoke to the kids about the importance of education and discipline.
The WNBA Community Assist Award is presented monthly during the season to the player who best reflects the league’s passion for making a difference in the community. In recognition of Wiggins’ charitable efforts, the WNBA is donating $5,000 to Greater Than AIDS on her behalf.
