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Whether you love him or hate him as a player, you can’t argue the humanitarian and overall great person that LeBron James happens to be. His indelible personal traits are on full display as LeBron James is set to honor local heroes with a special Nike LeBron 12 iD program. Entitled #iDYOURHERO, this initiative looks to highlight exemplary individuals within the Cleveland and Northeast Ohio community that have been active in their respective communities or overcame difficult situations. Some of the individuals include LeBron’s former High School coach Dru Joyce and local chef and business owner Jonathan Sawyer. The total count of individuals selected is 12, which seems to be the perfect number involved considering the numerical count of his latest signature model. Nonetheless, props to Nike and LeBron for spearheading this remarkable initiative. Get a preview of the pairs in the photos below. Information involving specific candidates is per Nike News.
Drue Joyce – As a high school basketball coach, mentor and father figure to James, Coach Dru Joyce’s commitment to his athletes makes him an inspiration to his community. Kinyatta Edgerson – Clevelander Kinyatta Edgerson worked hard to become a first-generation college student. Like James, Edgerson’s dedication to being an example for her family and hometown makes her a hero. Angela Dudek – Whether it’s publishing awareness articles, hosting fundraising events or delivering canned goods, Angela Dudek is there to inspire her city when its less-fortunate citizens need her most. Victoria Young – Victoria Young’s love and support for her children and the children she serves as a school liaison make her a hero. Jon Sawyer – Jon Sawyer, a hard-working Clevelander who opened the first certified green restaurant in Ohio. Similar to James, Sawyer shares a resolve for and commitment to Cleveland that make him a true asset to the community. Aleah Duncan – Aleah Duncan is an Akronite who’s changing the future by helping kids graduate on time through the LeBron James Family Foundation. Dr. Benson Bonyo – “LeBron’s return shows his love for the people here,” says Dr. Benson Bonyo, a doctor who serves many poor and uninsured patients from low-income, inner-city neighborhoods. “I understand his point of view, as I work to support both Akron and my hometown in Kenya.” Bonyo’s selfless service makes him a local hero. Brandi Davis – Brandi Davis is a school principal, visionary and friend. Her love and commitment for her students and her hometown make her a hero. Kaura Cauffield – “LeBron’s teachers helped him early on and inspired him to become amazing,” says Kara Cauffield. As an elementary school art teacher, she shares a dedication to youth with James. Larry Gray – Larry Gray, information officer for the fire department, is as heroic as he is humble. Billy Hundt – Billy Hundt is a military veteran and local firefighter. Similar to James, Hundt has a natural instinct to serve his community through his selflessness and a loyal sense of camaraderie. Richard Starr – “We need to invest in our kids to change the future,” says Richard Starr, director of the local Boys & Girls Club of Cleveland. Like James, Starr has dedicated his life to being a positive role model for kids in his community.
