How the USTA Foundation and Realize the Dream are set to inspire a new generation in service and leadership

Although the two never met, Dr. King wrote Ashe a letter shortly before his tragic death. Even though Ashe was still just a young rising athlete himself at the time, Dr. King understood the importance of affirming the way he was doing the work of speaking truth to power. “I would like to express my appreciation for your expression of support and solidarity in the fight for justice, freedom, and dignity for all people in this country,” Dr. King wrote in the correspondence. “Your eminence in the world of sports and athletics gives you an added measure of authority and responsibility. It is heartening indeed when you bring these attributes to the movement.”

Dr. King’s intention to uplift Ashe speaks to the spirit of the center of today’s collaboration—a shared focus on young people as future leaders and changemakers. Through NJTL programs, mentoring, service-learning projects, and civic engagement activities, youth will play a direct role in generating service hours while developing confidence, leadership skills, and a deeper connection to their communities.

“All too often when you look through the lens of history, it feels like you’re removed from it,” Waters King said. “We hope young people are inspired to know that they are important and impactful—and that they have a very important role in creating the world they’re going to inherit. Service, in some ways, is the rent that each of us pays for the space that we inhabit.”

Waters King also emphasized the importance of cultivating a spirit of service within our youth, particularly at a time when youth mental health remains a national concern. “Kids that are involved in service have, on average, higher mental health,” she said. “Not only are you doing good for the world, but you’re also doing good for yourself.”

She added that an important part of the initiative is helping young people recognize that service can begin wherever they are. “Service should not just be for the privileged. All of us have a very important and unique role in our community,” she said, noting how everyday acts like tutoring a neighbor’s child, helping a family with childcare, organizing a small clothing or food drive can be just as meaningful as large, organized projects.

Beyond individual impact, both leaders see partnerships like the one with the USTA Foundation as essential community infrastructure—especially in neighborhoods where safe, supportive spaces are limited. “These spaces are sometimes the only safe spaces that some young people may have,” Waters King said. “You’re building a sense of purpose, a sense of connection, and a sense of community.”