A star-studded gala brought sports fans, celebrities, community and one very special family together for an evening at the Breslin Center over the weekend.
Presented by the YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing, The Legacy of Magic Gala honored Earvin “Magic” Johnson and his family for lasting impact the family have made on generations of local youth and families.
WILX’s Tim Staudt emceed the evening, and honorary chairs Kellie and Marilyn Dean, and Tom Izzo and Lupe Izzo shared stories about Johnson, his family and the YMCA. Re’Shane Lonzo and YMCA President and CEO Casey Thompson also spoke and inspired attendees, raising awareness about the YMCA’s longtime commitment to community.
Over $800,000 was raised from the event through sponsor support, ticket and table sales, auctions and a donation by Johnson. Proceeds from The Legacy of Magic Gala will be directly used to support vital YMCA youth scholarships and critical facility improvements.
The YMCA ended the evening with some major announcements, revealing the Westside location was being renamed Earvin “Magic” Johnson YMCA; the facility will receive a brand-new sports fields and courts, with construction planned to begin in the fall; and a mural of the Johnson family, painted by local artist Dustin Hunt, is scheduled to be added to the building.
Learn more at the upcoming Connections and Coffee event with 517 Business taking place at the YMCA on Oct. 7.
