It’s that time again. Former NBA great Alonzo Mourning and his former teammate Dwyane Wade bring their own “party with a purpose” back to Miami this year for the 14th year of The Summer Groove, once dubbed Zo’s Summer Groove.
The annual extravaganza brings together sports and entertainment celebrities to party and parlay, but also to give back, as the goal of the event is to raise funds for Alonzo Mourning Charities and Wade’s World, the charitable foundations of both men. And lest you think this is a celebrity vanity write-off project, rest assured that both players have used the funds for tangible results for underprivileged kids in the Miami area.
AM Charities opened the Overtown Youth Center in Miami in 2003, and Mourning continues to be a voice for those struck with kidney disease, particularly people of color who are often diagnosed late because they ignore the signs. Mourning’s wife Tracy also runs HoneyShine Mentoring Program, a Miami-based program geared toward young women. Wade may be a little younger, but now that he’s aboard, he’s just as committed to giving back to the community as his older former teammate.
Here’s the line-up of this year’s events:
The Summer Groove Golf Classic
Wednesday, July 14
Doral Golf Resort and Spa
7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Avid golfer? You and your friends can golf with the pros, and it all goes to a good cause. Foursome and individual spots are available with all funds benefiting Alonzo Mourning Charities and Wade’s World Foundation. Reserve your space today by contacting Samantha Lepovetsky at (305) 476-0095/131 or by email at samantha@amcharities.org.
The Summer Groove Comedy Jam
Friday, July 16
Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida
7 p.m.
This year’s comics include host Rickey Smiley, and renowned jokesters George Willborn; Damon Williams, host of BET’s “ComicView;” Gary Owen, Rodney Perry, co-host of “The Mo’Nique Show;” Melanie Comarcho and Red Grant from “Def Comedy Jam.” Ticket prices are $45 to $100 and are available now at www.Ticketmaster.com.
Summer Groove Benefit Gala
Saturday, July 17
Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida
6:30 p.m.
Themed “Agua y Fuego: A Sizzling Summer Night,” the star-studded evening includes a cocktail reception featuring a silent auction, dinner program and a live auction. Both corporate or group tables and individual seating is available. To register, contact Samantha@amcharities.org or (305) 476-0095/131.
Summer Groove Block Party
Sunday, July 18, 2010
American Airlines Arena
11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Free
Alonzo Mourning and Dwyane Wade host the biggest block party each year with live music,
great food, lots of giveaways, the Molina Healthcare Village, rides and entertainment for the whole family!
Summer Groove All-Star Basketball Game
Sunday, July 18, 2010
American Airlines Arena
1 – 3 p.m.
Don’t miss an impressive list of all-stars ready to battle on the court – Old School vs. New School. The hottest game of the summer is jam-packed with entertainment, a highly anticipated half-time show, fun contests, interaction with top players in the league, and opportunities to win great prizes! Tickets are available now from $5 to $ 60 at TicketMaster.com.
For more information, please visit www.thesummergroove.com
