Bill Walton lived with extraordinary joy, curiosity, generosity and an enduring belief in other people.
The Bill Walton Foundation exists to carry that spirit forward—creating opportunities, connections and experiences that help others discover what is possible in their own lives.
We envision communities where people lift one another up, share what they have learned, create opportunities for others and use their individual gifts in service of something greater than themselves.
Helping young people find their path.
The Shine On Youth Scholarship supports underserved youth in communities that helped shape Bill’s life and legacy, including San Diego, Los Angeles, Portland and Boston.
More than financial assistance, Shine On connects young people with education, athletics, leadership development, mentorship and life guidance. Rooted in Bill’s belief that every kid needs a coach, the program helps young people find opportunity, confidence and belief in themselves.
Ride. Connect. Celebrate.
An annual community bike ride through San Diego celebrating Bill’s love of movement, optimism, connection and the outdoors.
The ride brings generations together through sport and shared joy, culminating in a celebration inspired by the music, energy and spirit that defined Bill’s life.
Building places where communities can come together.
The Home Court Initiative revitalizes local parks, outdoor courts and community basketball spaces—creating places where young people can play, grow, connect and thrive.
Communities can nominate courts and tell the stories of what those spaces mean to them. Selected courts will receive improvements and community-focused programming designed to bring people together through sport.
Supporting people already making a difference.
The Walton Way Grant Program supports organizations and community initiatives that embody Bill’s spirit of mentorship, optimism, movement, education and service.
With an emphasis on communities connected to Bill’s journey, the program helps organizations expand work in youth mentorship, wellness, educational access and community development.
Celebrating the joy Bill brought to the game.
A celebration of basketball through Bill’s eyes—bringing together the teams, cities, fans, players, music, color and joy that were part of his remarkable journey.
One day. One game we all love. One unforgettable celebration of Bill
And when you get there, help someone else find the way.
Bill Walton
Bill was a champion, teammate, broadcaster, cyclist, music lover, mentor, friend, husband, father and relentless believer in the potential of others.
His accomplishments on the basketball court made him known around the world. But the way he lived beyond the court—his curiosity, optimism, generosity, enthusiasm and ability to make others feel seen—defined his life just as profoundly.
The Bill Walton Foundation exists to ensure that spirit continues to move through the world.
Bill believed life was a team game. So do we.
Whether you give, mentor, ride, volunteer, partner with us or simply help spread the light, there is a place for you on this team
Bill was an ardent supporter of both the Lucky Duck Foundation and San Diego Sport Innovators.
The mission of the Lucky Duck Foundation is to prevent and alleviate the suffering of homelessness throughout San Diego County, and its co-founders match all donations up to $2 million per year.
The mission of San Diego Sport Innovators is to establish San Diego (and Southern California) as the core of the healthy living, sports and active lifestyle community. Through supporting companies at all stages, we help make our city and our residents, and ultimately our nation, a healthier, happier place to be.
Both the Lucky Duck Foundation and SDSI are providing their existing infrastructure and staff to help launch and operate the Bill Walton Foundation.
