A LOOK BACK
Over the past 11 years, Alonzo Mourning Charities (AM Charities) has reached several milestones. Many of these highlights are a direct result of the support and interest of countless individuals and corporate groups who also wish to make a difference in our community.
With much success, AMC has been able to add to the number of annual events that fund new and existing initiatives that benefit our youth of promise. For more information on how you can help, please visit www.amcharities.org
1997
Modeled after Magic Johnson’s fundraising event “A Midsummer Night’s Magic”, Mourning hosted the 1st annual ZO’S SUMMER GROOVE (ZSG) which raised more than $200,000 for local charities in South Florida. Now in its 15th year, ZSG has grown into a five-day, fun-filled community event that has become a staple in the South Florida community. ZSG, which is AMC's largest fundraising event, has always appealed to a diverse audience by offering a variety of events that include the following: youth basketball clinics, golf tournaments, concerts, comedy shows, galas, block parties, all-star basketball games, and numerous after-party functions. ZSG works to promote community involvement by encouraging event participants to enjoy a weekend that ultimately benefits South Florida’s youth of promise.
2000
Mourning took the Groove on the road to Hampton Roads, Virginia in what was known as ZO’S END OF SUMMER GROOVE. This annual event offered Mourning’s hometown supporters the opportunity to get involved. The three-day event included a golf tournament, youth summit, and a family day in the park. Proceeds benefited local organizations in the Hampton Road areas.
Also in 2000, Mourning personally delivered complete Thanksgiving meals door-to-door to unsuspecting needy families in South Florida. By 2007, with the support of sponsors, 33 THANKSGIVING has increased the number of meals delivered from 33 to 533.
2002
Founded by Tracy Wilson Mourning, the HONEY SHINE MENTORING PROGRAM provides positive experiences that nurture the mind, body and soul of young women, ages 8 to 18, that are in at-risk situations. They do so by enlightening their paths and creating balance in their young lives. The program currently offers services to local South Florida teens.
2003
ALONZO MOURNING CHARITIES becomes incorporated as a public not-for-profit organization.
With the help of donors, Alonzo Mourning Charities opened the first center in the historic area of Overtown in South Florida. The OVERTOWN YOUTH CENTER provides services to more than 225 kids. The center’s mission is to inspire and empower youth and families by fostering hope through enrichment services.
The annual HAT’S OFF LUNCHEON helps keep the Honey Shine Mentoring Program in operation year-round. Also, thanks to the success and popularity of this event, Camp Honey Shine was able to open its doors for a full three weeks in 2007.
ZO’S MILLION DOLLAR SHOOTOUT offers guest an exclusive golfing experience at the world renowned Trump National Golf Course. Alongside Shaquille O’Neal and Donald Trump, Mourning has been able to also make an impact on youth organizations in the New Jersey and New York area.
2005
Alonzo Mourning Charities joins forces with the Magic Johnson Foundation to host ZO & MAGIC’S 8-BALL CHALLENGE. Guests are invited to compete in the only true showdown-taking place during NBA All-Star Weekend. Proceeds benefited programs and services supported by both foundations.
2006
The KING PIN CLASSIC is another favorite event for Alonzo Mourning Charities supporters. Both Tracy and Alonzo Mourning scored the perfect strike raising more than $100,000 annually, during the King Pin Classic, for the Honey Shine Mentoring Program.
2007
Alonzo Mourning Charities unveils plan to build a second youth center in South Florida.
2008
The Groove just got flashier. NBA Champion Alonzo Mourning was joined by teammate Dwyane Wade, a.k.a. “Flash” on the court, to host ZSG. ZSG then benefited both Alonzo Mourning Charities and the Wade’s World Foundation.