Tennis superstar Serena Williams, along with her family, has announced the establishment of the Williams Foundation for Youth Empowerment, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing resources and support to young athletes from underserved communities.

The foundation, spearheaded by Serena, her sister Venus, and their parents Richard and Oracene Williams, aims to address the systemic barriers faced by aspiring athletes in marginalized communities, including limited access to training facilities, coaching, and financial support.

“Growing up, my family instilled in me the values of hard work, perseverance, and resilience,” said Serena Williams during the foundation’s inaugural press conference. “With the Williams Foundation, we hope to pay it forward by creating opportunities for young athletes to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or circumstances.”

The Williams Foundation will offer a range of programs and initiatives designed to support young athletes at every stage of their journey, from grassroots development to elite competition. These include scholarships for academic and athletic excellence, mentorship programs with professional athletes, and partnerships with local organizations to expand access to sports facilities and coaching.

“We believe that every child deserves the chance to reach their full potential, both on and off the field,” explained Venus Williams. “Through the Williams Foundation, we’re committed to leveling the playing field and empowering the next generation of athletes to succeed.”

The launch of the foundation comes at a time of increasing awareness around issues of equity and representation in sports, with athletes and advocates calling for greater investment in programs that support underserved communities. The Williams family, long regarded as trailblazers in the world of tennis, hopes to lead by example and inspire positive change in the sports industry and beyond.

“We’re incredibly proud to launch the Williams Foundation and to continue our family’s legacy of giving back,” said Richard and Oracene Williams in a joint statement. “Together, we can create a brighter future for young athletes everywhere.”

As the Williams Foundation begins its work, Serena and her family are calling on supporters to join them in their mission to empower young athletes and create a more inclusive and equitable sports landscape for all.