The mission of the VanVleet Family Foundation is to increase the access and exposure for the youth through educational opportunities, athletics, and career development.
Fred VanVleet, from humble
beginnings practicing basketball in his hometown of Rockford, Illinois, has always shown dedication to the sport. Regardless of weather conditions, he would always be found refining his skills. His commitment paid off in high school, where he led Auburn High School to a 22-game winning streak and their first Illinois High School Association final four since 1975.
In college, he continued to excel, attending Wichita State University and contributing significantly to the Shockers’ Final Four run in his freshman year. His college career was marked by numerous accomplishments, including being named the Missouri Valley Conference Larry Bird Player of the year twice and setting records in assists, steals, and win percentage.
Despite going undrafted in the 2016 NBA draft, VanVleet’s perseverance led him to his motto “Bet on Yourself.” He signed a summer league contract with the Toronto Raptors and eventually secured a multiyear deal with the team. His contribution was instrumental in the Raptors’ 2019 NBA Championship win. In 2022, he achieved All-Star status, becoming one of only four undrafted players to ever earn the honor.
In 2023, he became the highest-paid undrafted player in history when he signed with the Houston Rockets, where he currently plays. Off the court, VanVleet’s impact continues through The VanVleet Family Foundation (VFF), providing resources for those in need, including school supplies, clothing, food, and educational programs.
The VanVleet Family (VFF) Foundation was established in 2016 to lend a helping hand to those most in need.
Like many communities there are more stories of what not to do versus how to do it. Kids need someone to believe in them and by providing resources and educational opportunities we help water those beliefs. The VFF provides many things from basic resources of food, clothing, shoes, and coats to financial literacy classes, HBCU College Tours, College Scholarships, youth club sports participation, holiday shopping sprees, and NBA Gameday experiences.
Founder and CEO
Co-Founder and President
We work to give back to those who are often overlooked or forgotten. Kids are the most important part of a community and giving back and nurturing those by someone who walked the same halls and roamed the same community centers gives them hope they can also achieve anything.
