Alonzo Mourning does not want to be remembered as some guy who was good at playing ball. Seriously? Zo, as he is affectionately known by basketball fans everywhere, was twice named NBA Defensive Player of The Year, is routinely on the NBA All Defensive Team, held all kinds of records, and the Miami Heat retired his number when Zo retired - the only time they've ever done that. But that's not what he wants to be known for? Again, we say, "seriously?"

"It's like Jackie Robinson said," explains this gentle giant, "a life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives. I don't want to be remembered as a guy who just played basketball. If I was to have to leave this earth today, I'm content that I'll be leaving this earth a better place because of my contributions. I think giving is the most powerful act."

Alonzo walks his talk, he dunks his talk, and he scores with it. The Alonzo Mourning Charities work to invest in our collective future by nurturing children with education and mentoring programs focused on promoting positive changes in communities with low socioeconomic status. They operate several different charitable organizations from Honey Shine, which focuses on empowering young girls, to several youth outreach programs that include mentoring, basketball clinics and youth summits. All of which reflect his belief that the only way to create a better future is to empower our youth to succeed, and motivate them to stay engaged in the community. According to Mourning, "education is the blueprint for a successful future."

He should know.

Raised in the foster care system, Mourning is pretty clear that he got where he is because people reached out to him and helped him. "The reason I focus on young kids, is that I wouldn't be in the position I am in without the contributions of other people. The seeds that were planted by coaches, teachers, family members - you name it - helped my development and made me who I am." Needless to say, he feels strongly that all kids deserve that, and that we can all make a difference in the lives of the kids around us, especially those who, like he was, are being raised in very fragile environments.

"Everyone can give time, love, encouragement, and hope. It's not about giving money, but about giving of yourself. Everybody has a purpose, find out what it is, and do something about it. Just become an active participant in something of positive significance."

If you want to join his team, you can donate to or volunteer with the Alonzo Mourning Charities. But Zo knows that he can't do it alone and is quick to point out the other great players in the field, "Big Brothers and Big Sisters, they're doing great work, there are lots of ways you can get involved, all you have to do is do it.

Or, as we like to say, "Cause It!" Way to go Zo, you're an all-star in our book, for sure!