Why Not? Foundation

We’re the Why Not? Foundation. Ignited by our co-founder, Russell Westbrook, our mission is to inspire the lives of young people, teach them to always ask themselves, “WHY NOT?” and help them to build the resilience to never give up. Our three core pillars aim to create pathways of empowerment for underserved communities in the areas of educational opportunities, workforce development and accessible mental health resources. Most recently, we’ve hosted our Why Not? Basketball Camp in Los Angeles, CA for ages 8-14, held our 4th Annual Poker Night with the WORLD POKER TOUR FOUNDATION and, in partnership with Little Kitchen Academy, established the Changing Lives from Scratch Fund which aims to provide grants and scholarships to kids and teens from underserved communities. And that’s just the beginning. For more information on the Changing Lives From Scratch Fund: https://lnkd.in/gztjshvp To learn more about what drives us — including how to support — visit: https://lnkd.in/g2sqUEW8

I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude to Little Kitchen Academy and Why Not? Foundation for our tremendous partnership, including the creation of the Changing Lives from Scratch Fund. As a parent and advocate for community impact, it’s been an honor to support a program that’s helping young people grow—not just in the kitchen, but in every aspect of their lives. Little Kitchen Academy’s unique approach fosters confidence, learning, and resilience, and I’m proud to be part of it. I’m also excited to continue supporting the Changing Lives from Scratch Fund. This initiative is especially close to my heart because it’s about more than just food—it’s about creating opportunities for growth and success in underserved communities. By providing resources and opening doors to education, we’re working to create a future where everyone can thrive. A big thank you to Little Kitchen Academy for being such an amazing partner in this journey. Together, we’re making a meaningful impact, and I’m excited for what’s ahead! To learn more, visit: https://lnkd.in/gpBUMr9h

I’m always inspired to see Nina Westbrook and the Why Not? Foundation bring their vision to life, especially during #WomensHistoryMonth. The 3rd Annual Mental Health & Wellness Brunch Fundraiser was a powerful gathering of women leaders, pioneers, and innovators. It sparked meaningful discussions on the practices, values, and mindsets that empower women to lead authentically in competitive, often male-dominated spaces. This event has truly become a cornerstone for both our foundation and Nina, and I’m excited to witness its continued impact and growth in the years to come!

Couldn’t have honored #WomensHistoryMonth without celebrating women pioneers, leaders and innovators at our 3rd Annual Women’s Wellness Brunch! Our focus this year, Multi: Exploring the Versatility of Today’s Leading Women, was led by Nina Westbrook, with an extraordinary panel featuring Bridgid Coulter Cheadle, Melody Ehsani, Dr. Jenelle Kim, and Ryan Michelle Bathé. Thanks to all of our incredible speakers, guests and partners for helping make this event come to life. With your support, we can expand our programs and amplify our impact. For more information, visit whynotfoundation.org.

Everyone, from fellow players to fans, always asks me: 'Why don’t you do more interviews?' While that’s a story for another day, I’m proud to officially announce something that should suffice. WORD OF WESTBROOK. My first and only newsletter – created by me, for you. Expect everything that inspires me: art, fashion, lifestyle, and more. Nothing is off the table. It’s been a long time coming. Being in the league for nearly two decades, I’ve become accustomed to the traditional media cycle. As a result, I was finally inspired to create a platform where I could write and connect with people in a way I never had before. Instead of another player podcast or sit-down interview, I wanted to do it on my terms. Join me on this journey! It’s new for the both of us. Subscribe: https://lnkd.in/g6-iEXe9 #whynot

As a foundation dedicated to uplifting and supporting our communities, we were honored to be part of the Together We Rebuild event in Los Angeles. In collaboration with just keep livin Foundation and The SoLa Foundation, the Why Not? Foundation and Nina Westbrook joined together for a day of wellness activations, resources and resilience for those impacted by the Los Angeles fires. This initiative brought together passionate individuals, organizations, and local leaders, all uniting with one goal in mind: to rebuild and empower those impacted by the recent hardships. It was an inspiring day of collaboration that helped bring hope and recovery back to the heart of LA. At the Why Not? Foundation, we remain dedicated to creating lasting change, supporting sustainable recovery, and uplifting communities in need. Together, we continue to move forward with hope and strength. Creating with Jade: https://lnkd.in/d9w6Ccpv Arees Army: https://lnkd.in/dKMMcEKU SoLa Impact Russell Westbrook Enterprises Russell Westbrook

Had an amazing time at our Changing Lives from Scratch Fund launch event in Denver with Why Not? Foundation and Little Kitchen Academy benefiting HopeKids! Our program provides grants to kids and teens from underserved communities, empowering the youth to build confidence, independence, and creativity in the kitchen while teaching them valuable life skills. Loved seeing my new Denver family, friends and community at the sold-out event, and looking forward to continuing to grow our Why Not? Foundation's presence in the area through this program. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gpBUMr9h Russell Westbrook Enterprises

Reflecting on last Friday’s sold-out event at Little Kitchen Academy Denver 9+Co still fills me with gratitude and excitement. Hosting an exclusive meet-and-greet in partnership with Russell Westbrook and his Why Not? Foundation to celebrate the expansion of the Changing Lives from Scratch Fund into Denver was both an honor and a profound reminder of the power of community. Seeing our collective efforts come together to support HopeKids-to provide transformative cooking experiences for 100 children and teens facing life-threatening medical conditions—was incredibly moving. I am truly proud of our team, the awesome team at Why Not? Foundation, Robbin Brown, and the Denver community for making this vision a reality. This wasn’t just a fundraiser. It was a celebration of community, resilience, and the spirit of change. Here’s changing lives from scratch and creating lasting impact!

We’re still buzzing from an incredible, sold-out event last Friday at LKA Denver 9+Co. The exclusive meet-and-greet event, held in partnership with Russell Westbrook's Why Not? Foundation, celebrated the expansion of the Changing Lives from Scratch Fund into Denver and brought the community together to support HopeKids , raising critical funds to provide transformative cooking experiences for 100 children and teens facing life-threatening medical conditions. This event wasn’t just about fundraising—it was about building community and changing lives. Read the full release: https://lnkd.in/gA3PgRDe Russell Westbrook Enterprises Nina Westbrook Robbin Brown Denver Nuggets - NBA Basketball Team National Basketball Association (NBA)

An unbelievable evening last week launching the Changing Lives from Scratch Fund in Denver with Russell Westbrook and Little Kitchen Academy benefiting HopeKids! The fund provides grants to kids and teens from underserved communities across the US and Canada, allowing them to experience the incredible benefits of cooking classes with experienced chefs. We’re proud to grow our footprint to Denver with Russell, and look forward to seeing the life-changing benefits of this program continue to expand! To learn more including how to support, visit whynotfoundation.org