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Joakim Noah Wins Community Service Award

By Paul Steeno

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Prior to the Bulls 103-86 victory against the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night, Joakim Noah received the February NBA Cares Community Assist Award for his outstanding charitable work in the Chicago community.


In collaboration with his mom Celcilia Rodhe, Noah has established a highly impactful charitable organization known as the Noah’s Arc Foundation. In the month of February, Noah’s foundation began a campaign known as the “Rock Your Drop: The Drop of Consciousness” which seeks to spread awareness about violence in the City of Chicago. According to its website, the intended purpose of this anti-violence campaign is to remember those that have fallen victim to violence and encourage residents to work together to end the violence in Chicago.

"“The key message is that it’s not “their” problem. It is OUR problem, and together we can try to solve it! When you Rock Your Drop, You are not alone!”"

Noah’s mother Celcilia created a teardrop necklace that gives the campaign its namesake. The “Drop of Consciousness” has a special symbolic meaning for those who supporter Noah’s anti-violence campaign.

"The pendant is a metal teardrop whose scarred surface recognizes the pain of losing someone to violence, while the precious metal and solid feel of the drop symbolize strength and commitment to positive change."

JNoah couldn’t have done this alone. Several of his teammates have supported him in his efforts to curb the violence that plagues Chicago. Native Chicagoan Derrick Rose joined the “Rock Your Drop” campaign.

Joakim Noah productions created a video entitled “You’re Not Alone” which reveals the “inspiration behind NAF’s (Noah’s Arc Foundation) symbol which represents the collective strength, unity and commitment of the community to positive change.” The video features people, including Rose, Nazr Mohammed and Taj Gibson, recounting their experience losing loved ones to violence.

After receiving this designation, Noah said that he was proud that his charitable organization has had such a profound impact on the population of Chicago.

"“I’m really proud. A lot of people have worked really hard for this award and it’s obviously not for the award—but if it brings awareness to what we’re doing, I’m all for it.”"

Noah says that helping out people less fortunate than himself is in his blood.

"“I want to make a powerful impact, because helping people is very important to me,” said Noah. “When I’m on the court, this is what gives me strength. The work I’ve done thus far is only the beginning.”"

The award that Noah received Wednesday night commemorates all the work that he has done to better the City of Chicago. Hate him or love him, you have to respect his commitment to the community and his willingness to sacrifice his time and money to help others. Joakim Noah represents everything that is right about the NBA’s push for community service initiative from its players. His legacy in the community will far outlast any on-court accomplishment that he is able to achieve.

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