Houston Rockets' Dillon Brooks is known as a villain on the court, but outside the competition, he describes himself as a jolly human bean during the holiday season. Brooks hosted a Christmas party for foster kids at BEAR Houston Thursday night.
He greeted kids with autographs, gifts and a dinner courtesy of Buffalo Wild Wings. The event also included a photo booth, face painting station and various other activities that Brooks participated in with the kids.
"This is the first Christmas I will have in Houston," Brooks said. "It's the Season of Giving. They should have the same atmosphere that other families have of love and care, showing that there are people out there who love and care for them. I want to see the best [for these kids]."
BEAR "BE A Resource" is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of at-risk and CPS-involved children by providing hope and help in the greater Houston area.
Lauren Whidden, BEAR Development Coordinator, says four Child Protective Services workers began the organization nearly 25 years ago. When taking a child out of a traumatic situation, the founders contributed their own money to provide everyday essentials.
They started with $5,000. In 2023, BEAR has since grown into a prominent non-profit in Houston. The organization served over 25,000 children with Christmas gifts last year. This year, Whidden says BEAR has helped 4,000 more.
"When we got the call, it was such a surprise," Whidden said. "Any support from the community helps BEAR in so many ways. We support so many children, and it is huge for us.
"People don't realize when they see that they can't go home to pack a bag or take anything with them; they do not know what situation they are going into. We can give them that dignity. If we can be a silent part of that journey to give them hope, that's our calling."
Brooks' humanitarianism extends beyond the holiday party for BEAR. During the Rockets' home game against the Dallas Mavericks Friday night, Brooks will provide a VIP experience for an ailing fan and their family. The experience will include courtside seating and a pregame meet and greet.
The game will mark the second time Brooks provided the ultimate gameday experience. His first came during the Rockets' interconference game against the Atlanta Hawks Wednesday night.
"I love the City of they embraced me when I was down," Brooks said. "I'm just finding ways to give back to the city and learn more and more. I feel like I am going to be here for a while.
"Just seeing what's needed in the community. I always want to give back. I did not do it much when I was in Memphis, but I want to start doing it more now that I am in Houston."
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