Alonzo Mourning, a former NBA star and renowned philanthropist, continues to make a significant impact in the realm of affordable housing and community development. At 55 years of age, Mourning has undergone one of the most impressive transformations anywhere in life. Now, after a 15-year NBA career with the Charlotte Hornets, New Jersey Nets and Miami Heat, he’s dedicated to doing the same for others. He won an NBA Championship in 2006 as a member of the Miami Heat and retired from professional basketball in 2008. Since then, he’s committed himself to philanthropy — like starting AM Affordable Housing in 2017.
Mourning was born in Chesapeake, Virginia. His life is powered by an abiding faith and mighty devotion to his community. He has faith that every person is a child of God, thereby imbuing them with the infinite potential to do good. Mourning articulates this belief clearly: “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Mourning’s early development had a deep influence on who he became. He resided with Ms. Threet until the age of 18. This love, stability and encouragement led him to chase his dream of playing basketball at Georgetown University. This history has shaped his drive to pay that support forward to others who have needed help.
Mourning has built a fruitful collaboration with Housing Trust Group (HTG) via AM Affordable Housing. Their partnership has resulted in over 250 new affordable housing units for families, seniors, and veterans. No wonder his nationwide organization has won billions in new financial commitments. This includes over $17 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits from the Department of Housing and Urban Development and more than $9 million in State Apartment Incentive Loans (SAIL) for affordable housing projects.
One of Mourning’s most impactful projects is the creation of Astoria on 9th. This $37 million affordable senior apartment complex was completed in May in Bradenton, Florida. The new development will provide 120 affordable apartments. With rents based on a low-income tenant’s ability to pay and an average of $322 a month, it is remarkably affordable housing. Mourning expressed his thoughts about the importance of this initiative: “These are people that aren’t looking for a handout, they just need a little bit of help.”
Mourning’s vision extends beyond Florida. He has ambitions to grow AM Affordable Housing to Virginia, his home state. This ambition is a testament to his strong-rooted passion for where he comes from and his appreciation to elevate the communities all over this great country.
Mourning calls on us to be accountable to each other, reminding us that an individual legacy is ultimately forged in how we care for those around us. “Your legacy should be defined by what you do for your neighbor … the impact that you had on other people’s lives,” he stated. His vision shines a light on the power of service and compassion to build stronger communities.
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