The Indiana Fever announced Tuesday that the WNBA All-Star 2025 Host Committee has committed $1 million in grants to four Indiana-based nonprofits, funding projects aimed at empowering local youth and families ahead of the league’s marquee event in July.
The grant recipients-- Fletcher Place Community Center, the Marion County Commission on Youth, the Marvella Foundation and the Parks Alliance of Indianapolis-- were chosen based on their ability to address critical needs and develop projects that promote learning, play, and growth.
Mel Raines, WNBA All-Star 2025 founding chair and Pacers Sports & Entertainment CEO, said the initiative reflects the broader impact of the All-Star event.
“The incredible spirit of WNBA All-Star extends far beyond the court, and by partnering with Hoosier nonprofits we have an opportunity to make lasting change for the next generation,” Raines said. “We can’t wait to see these projects come to life and lift up our youth, families, and communities.”
Fletcher Place Community Center will use the funding to upgrade its early learning playground and toddler play space, install a greenhouse, expand kitchen storage, and make other facility improvements at its Indianapolis location.
The Marion County Commission on Youth will renovate its headquarters to meet ADA standards, improve safety, and expand its training capacity.
The Marvella Foundation will build a “Championship Arena” at its Girls Sports Leadership Experience campus at Fair Oaks Farms, providing a space for community events, scholarship recipients, and sports camps hosted by female athletes such as former Indiana Fever star Tamika Catchings.
The Parks Alliance of Indianapolis will renovate the basketball court at Al E. Polin Park, resurfacing the playing area, upgrading backboards and improving seating and site accessibility.
The grant will also support the WNBA All-Star 2025 Student Ambassador program, which provides 25 female high school students with leadership and development opportunities.
The WNBA All-Star 2025 weekend is scheduled for July 18-19 in Indianapolis. Tickets are expected to go on sale this spring, with additional community engagement opportunities to be announced in the coming months. Fans can sign up for updates at the WNBA's All-Star website.