The Washington Wizards announced today that they have launched “Wizards Care,” an all-encompassing program that will serve as the focal point for all of the organization’s community initiatives moving forward.

“The entire organization, from Irene and myself to our players, coaches and employees, is committed to investing our time and resources to Wizards Care,” said Wizards Chairman Abe Pollin. “By continuing to provide assistance to the youth, homeless and underserved in the D.C. metropolitan area through Wizards Care, we hope to inspire others to do the same.”

Wizards Care is inspired by the Pollins’ 44-year legacy of giving. Since taking over ownership of the Wizards franchise in 1964, the Pollins have demonstrated a commitment to social responsibility and a passion for giving back to the community. Their philanthropic and humanitarian efforts have created an unparalleled history for Wizards Care to follow.

“The Washington Wizards, under the guidance of Abe and Irene Pollin, have long been leaders in giving back to Washington, D.C.,” said Mayor Adrian Fenty. “The Wizards Care initiative is truly exciting for the District of Columbia, as it highlights the continuation of a number of very popular programs throughout our city. I congratulate the Wizards and the Pollins on the launch of Wizards Care.”

As the 2008-09 season tips off, Wizards players, coaches and front office staff will continue to be the ambassadors representing the Pollins’ commitment to giving and making a difference. Wizards Care will give them the platform to do so through service programs, fundraising events, awareness campaigns and community activities.

Specifically, Wizards Care will reach out through programs such as Gilbert Scores For Schools (in which Gilbert Arenas will raise money for area schools by donating $150 for each point he scores), Abe’s Table (which reaches out to over 200 D.C.-area senior citizens each holiday season), Butler’s Bike Brigade (through which Caron Butler has given away over 1,200 bicycles to underserved children), Read to Achieve and Everybody Wins (two programs that promote a love for learning and reading), Reach One, Teach One (a series of charities focusing on the education and empowerment of children) and Sister To Sister (a program to prevent heart disease founded by Irene Pollin that provides free cardiac screenings to women while promoting education and awareness). In addition, the team will hold the first-ever Wizards Care Telethon and their annual Ballers Bowl event in March.