D12 Foundation's mission is to plant seeds, cultivate them and watch them grow. The D12 Foundation is focused on facilitating positive change in the lives of American youth – as well as girls in East Africa – through strategic programmatic and funding partners. Guided by D12 Foundation founder and president, Dwight Howard, we seek to strategically and effectively help close critical community “gaps" by making best use of our unique position and talents, and partnering with individuals and organizations who share our vision in three key areas of focus:Early Childhood Education & LiteracyWhy? “The ripple effect" –High quality early childhood education means:- Better achievement in school/higher graduation rates/better employment- Less drug abuse and crime- Lower incidence of incarcerationGirls Empowerment through Education in East AfricaWhy? Because when you educate a woman, you lift up a nation. Yet:- Globally, 62 million girls lack access to education- Yet, educated girls reverse extreme poverty rapidly: “invest" 90% of their money in the family (this is 3x the “investment" of men)Leadership DevelopmentWhy? As an Olympian, a #1 draft pick, an 8-time NBA All-Star, Dwight Howard has a wealth of true-to-life experience to share with youth – both those facing challenges, and those on the right path – pertaining to:- Being bullied/standing up to bullying- Withstanding peer pressure- Earning and conveying respect- Giving back to one's community