Raptors legend sets up mentor program for teens
$25,000 scholarship open globally to Grades 11, 12
Raptors icon Vince Carter was a divisive player in Toronto during his 22-year NBA career, drawing thunderous applause for his nightly highlight-reel plays but vicious boos when he was traded.
He continues to leave a mark here through his philanthropy, with his latest move likely supported by all basketball fans.
Partnered with the Torontobased, Paris Media group, Carter has launched a scholarship and mentorship program in the Greater Toronto Area for teens entering Grades 11 and 12 this September. The scholarship is open worldwide, and will offer $25,000 per student.
The program is open to all, but Carter “strongly encourages” the Black community, Indigenous community, people of colour and young women to apply.
The news release promoting the program says under-represented minority groups often cite “lack of experience, exposure and opportunity” that keeps them from advancing forward in their chosen paths. The scholarship aims to level the playing field for students of marginalized communities.
“He understands that the community is hurting and any opportunity of hope could inspire leaders, and maybe even the next person that’s going to transform generations,” Paris Dryden, executive vice-president and CEO of Paris Media Group, told the Star.
Recipients will attend top-calibre private schools with their tuition covered and students will receive internship and mentorship opportunities with corporate board executives.
The mentorship components and opportunities to shadow corporate executives is what makes the scholarship unique as it will prepare students for college and university, Dryden said.
Auxiliary programs for younger students ages 12 to 15 include summer camps for civics and careers, fashion and film, sports, music and leadership.
J. Addison School in Markham has been selected as the first participating school for the program launch.
The scholarship criteria require applicants to possess a passion in a specific academic pathway and includes reviews of grades, personal character, community service and submission of a 500-word essay.
More details on the program and how to apply are expected to be released soon.
Carter, a native of Daytona Beach, Fla., played for the Raptors in 1998-2004.
The scholarship program was launched in Toronto as a tribute to where Carter began his career, and the Paris Media group hopes to bring it to the other seven U.S. cities where he played.