Portland Trail Blazers guard Wesley Matthews is the recipient of the Kia Community Assist Award for February in recognition of his outstanding efforts in the community and his ongoing philanthropic and charitable work, the NBA announced today.

Kia and the NBA are honoring Matthews for his work giving back to children and families in the Portland community. During the past two seasons, Matthews has led a coat drive that benefits Portland’s Police Activities League, which to date has collected more than 1,100 coats for local families in need. As part of his efforts, Matthews encouraged fans to donate via television and radio spots, social media and conducted an autograph session at a local clothing store. The Trail Blazers star also treated five children to a shopping spree and personally purchased each of them new coats, shoes and clothing in addition to providing them money to buy coats for their family and to make the drive’s initial donation.

“Giving back to the community puts everything in perspective,” Matthews said. “As players, basketball is something that we do, it’s not who we are as people. Making a difference is what defines a person and I am grateful to be in a position to help children and families in need.”

via NBA.com