Number #83
NBA's Spencer Brothers Launch Foundation to Serve Veterans Battling PTSD
Featured Focus:
Athlete-Driven Impact, Health & Wellness, Partnerships for Good
Scope of Impact: Nationwide
NBA players (and brothers) Patrick and Cam Spencer recently launched their foundation, driven by deep military ties and a mission to serve veterans. Here’s the breakdown:
Mission Focus: The foundation centers on "Serving those who served," with an initial, sharp focus on veterans battling PTSD — an issue the brothers identified as critical and often overlooked through direct conversations with service members.
Strategic Plays: They employ a dual approach: fundraising for established, effective PTSD treatment programs via partners like Operation Second Chance and SMGA, and investing in future solutions through clinical research, notably exploring Cold Water Immersion (CWI) therapy linked to the Chillshark venture.
Personal Connection: Their Army veteran grandfather, and upbringing near the Naval Academy, fuels their commitment. Currently hands-on, the Spencers aim to professionalize management as the foundation grows. They're using their platform to build awareness and resources, viewing the PTSD focus as a starting point.
Similar to their style on the court, the Spencer Brothers’ philanthropic efforts aren’t flashy — but they are fundamentally sound and rock solid.
We love how authentic and genuine the work of their foundation is. The connection to their grandfather and to the military community will allow them to make a strategic impact on an issue that’s dear to their hearts. And, choosing a specific focus area to start with, like veteran PTSD, demonstrates a commitment to deep, targeted change rather than broad strokes.
We also admire the smart play of partnering with established organizations like Operation Second Chance and SMGA, allowing them to channel resources effectively from day one. Their investment towards innovative approaches like CWI research shows they're focused both on short-term support and long-term solutions. It’s a WIN | WIN across the board.
YOUR NEXT PLAY:
When it comes to partnerships, don’t overlook the athletes who aren’t always in the spotlight. While they may not all be household names, many are committed to supporting specific issues through awareness, activism, and funding. How can you amplify their efforts to support your own?
The organization’s official website, with more information on their mission, partners, events, and ways to get involved.
Local news reports on the Spencer Brothers’ family history, journey to the NBA, and their motivations for starting the Foundation.
One of the Spencer Brothers Foundation’s partners, OSC provides a variety of support services to wounded, injured, and ill veterans.
Another Foundation partner, which uses golf as a means for mental and physical rehabilitation for wounded or struggling veterans.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides information on PTSD support, treatment, and resources for veterans.
The Spencers are working with Texas-based Chillshark in the production of cold-plunge water tanks, which some research shows are effective in treating symptoms of PTSD.
