March 20, 2012
Former NBA players "Big Bob" Lanier, Sam Perkins, and Felipe Lopez joined former WNBA player Sheryl Swoopes on March 8 for a hands-on event at Milby High School. But instead of basketballs, the former basketball stars gripped paint brushes and shovels to take part in an extensive renovation at the school. Joining them was Houston Mayor Annise Parker, HISD Board Trustee Manuel Rodriguez, and over 150 volunteers from BBVA Compass.
The daylong service project included everything from painting and landscaping to installing new computers. Volunteers also assembled new furniture for the library and new equipment for the school's weight room and "Buffalo Bistro" café.
"We are so grateful to all of you for donating your time and sweat equity," Lanier said. "Just like on the basketball court, it takes a team to win. It takes a team to accomplish anything," said former WNBA star Sheryl Swoopes. "Today we have gathered a great team who is committed to making their community better."
The Milby event kicked off the second year of the "Team.Works. in School" initiative, which is a partnership between BBVA Compass and NBA Cares to revitalize schools across the nation. The extensive refurbishment at Milby marked the first of six to take place around the country during the month of March.
Milby students, like senior Michelle Carillo, also volunteered at the hands-on service project. "This just makes me feel so special to know that so many people care about my school," said Carillo. "It motivates me to want to volunteer and do more for my community."