Inspiring Young Minds at the 1st Grade Book Reading Event with Helen Darling
Basketball fans and book enthusiasts alike have something exciting to celebrate! Former WNBA player and children’s author Helen Darling teamed up with the All Good Living Foundation and NBA Legends to provide young readers an unforgettable experience. This special book-reading event was about storytelling and inspiring young minds to dream big and develop a love for reading.
Event Details
This incredible event took place over two days:
February 12: Ruby Bridges Elementary in Alameda
February 13: Madison Park Academy in Oakland
Both days, Helen Darling read to first-grade classes, sharing her stories, her love for literature, and a little bit of her basketball magic.
Meet Helen Darling
Helen Darling made her mark on the basketball court as a standout player for the Cleveland Rockers, Minnesota Lynx, Charlotte Sting, and San Antonio Silver Stars. But what makes Helen’s story so inspiring is her passion for giving back.
Beyond her athletic career, Helen is known for her dedication to serving the communities she has been part of—so much so that she was awarded the WNBA Community Assistant Award in 2003. She’s also a national spokesperson for The March of Dimes, championing maternal and child health.
These days, Helen combines her love for children and storytelling as the author of a beloved seven-book series for kids. Her books aim to spark curiosity and foster a passion for learning—and her involvement in this event brings her stories to life in a way these first graders will never forget.
A Partnership of Legends
This inspiring event marks a collaboration between the All Good Living Foundation and NBA Legends. It showcases how sports and education can intersect to create meaningful change. By bringing a role model like Helen Darling into the classroom, this partnership highlights the importance of using influence for good and building connections with young minds.
More Than Just a Reading
For Helen, this isn’t just about reading books to children—it’s about showing them endless possibilities. Whether on the court or in the classroom, Helen’s message is consistent: work hard, believe in yourself, and never stop learning.