Overview:
LaDondra Wilson, Vice President of Social Responsibility and Executive Director of the Dallas Wings Community Foundation, has been instrumental in shaping the team's identity as more than just a basketball franchise. The Foundation's initiatives focus on women and girls, social justice, youth sports, health and wellness, and education, and are funded by money raised through various initiatives. The Wings' work reflects the WNBA's reputation as the most socially conscious league in professional sports, and their player-first advocacy shines through initiatives like the Commissioner's Cup. The upcoming Kicks & Cocktails fundraiser will celebrate the team's mission and raise funds for the Foundation's year-round programming across North Texas.
When LaDondra Wilson speaks about the Dallas Wings’ mission off the court, you can hear the purpose in her voice. As Vice President of Social Responsibility and the inaugural Executive Director of the Dallas Wings Community Foundation, Wilson has been central to shaping the Wings’ identity as more than just a basketball franchise.
Her role carries a dual weight. On the business side, she connects corporate partners with the team’s community vision, overseeing initiatives like the Social Justice Committee. But her deepest imprint comes through the Foundation itself.
“I became the founding executive director when we launched in March 2021,” Wilson recalls.
“Since then, we’ve built around five pillars: women and girls, social justice, youth sports, health and wellness, and education. It’s about taking the values of our players and leadership, then using the money we raise to reinvest directly into our community.”
Carrying Forward the WNBA’s Legacy of Advocacy
The Wings’ work reflects the broader WNBA reputation as the most socially conscious league in professional sports. For Wilson, that legacy isn’t just history—it’s a blueprint.
“Because this league is made up of women, mostly Black women, and LGBTQ athletes, players have always had to advocate for themselves,” she says. “The WNBA gives them that platform, and we’ve carried that spirit into what we do in Dallas.”
That player-first advocacy shines in initiatives like the Commissioner’s Cup, where Wings players choose local causes to support. In recent years, donations have gone to Sisters Network, which raises awareness about breast health in Black communities, and Unity Unlimited, a Fort Worth nonprofit focused on equity and inclusion.
“It’s my responsibility to identify who’s doing meaningful work in our community and connect those groups with our players,” Wilson explains.
“The trust goes both ways—the players know we’ll partner with organizations that reflect their values.”
LaDondra Wilson, Vice President of Social Responsibility and the inaugural Executive Director of the Dallas Wings Community Foundation
Kicks & Cocktails: Fashion Meets Philanthropy
This mission will soon be celebrated in style with Kicks & Cocktails: An Air of Excellence at DEC on Dragon. The event blends sneakers, fashion, and philanthropy into what Wilson calls a “party with a purpose.”
“This is our first social fundraiser that involves our players,” she says with pride. “We’ve hosted happy hours and mixers before, but this is on another level. Every available player will be there, and it’s a chance for fans to connect with them.”
With VIP tickets already sold out, the night is set to be a highlight of the Wings’ season. Guests can expect music, games, food, and sneaker culture on full display—courtesy of one of the WNBA’s most stylish rosters. Every dollar raised will fuel the Foundation’s year‑round programming across North Texas.
Wilson sees the event as more than just a fundraiser—it’s a preview of what’s next. A full five‑year anniversary celebration is planned for spring 2026. Until then, the focus is on celebrating the progress made and strengthening momentum for the future.
A Foundation Born Out of Crisis
The Foundation’s beginnings weren’t polished galas or rooftop parties. Its launch was delayed by the devastating 2021 winter storm that left thousands across Texas without heat or shelter.
“We didn’t even have a bank account yet,” Wilson remembers. “We had to make a conscious decision if we wanted to launch in the middle of a crisis. We wanted to respond to our neighbors in need first.”
In partnership with a corporate sponsor, the Foundation quickly pivoted, launching an online campaign that raised $124,000 within 72 hours for families in need. That spirit—meeting the moment and putting community first—has defined the Wings’ off‑the‑court presence ever since.
Looking Ahead
As the Wings close out their 2025 season, Wilson’s vision remains focused and steady.
“Our players are at the center of everything we do,” she affirms. “My job is to amplify their voices, connect them to the community, and make sure the Wings leave a lasting footprint in Dallas.”
On September 9, that footprint will take the form of sneakers on a rooftop, cocktails in hand, and a community united in purpose. For Wilson and the Wings, it’s about more than basketball—it’s about building something that lasts.
Event & Ticketing Details
Event: Kicks & Cocktails: An Air of Excellence
Date & Location: September 9, 2025, at DEC on Dragon (adults only, 21+)
General tickets are still available. Secure your spot now and be part of a celebration that blends style with purpose:
Don’t miss your chance to kick it with the Wings and give back to North Texas! Secure your tickets here.