Charles Barkley, the former NBA star and Hall of Famer, is stepping into the role of philanthropist with a mission to tackle urban blight in his hometown of Leeds and nearby Birmingham, Alabama. Recently, Barkley pledged $2 million to revitalize run-down neighborhoods, committing $1 million to each city. His personal connection to the area, particularly after renovating his late mother’s home, has driven him to address the visible decline he witnessed in his childhood neighborhood.
During a recent conversation, Barkley expressed his commitment to improving the quality of life for residents in these communities. "I want to buy run-down homes and try to reinvigorate these areas. That’s my next venture," he stated, reflecting on the responsibility he feels towards his hometown. With a plan to partner with the minority contractor who renovated his mother’s house, Barkley aims to purchase and renovate surrounding properties in Leeds.
While he has a clear vision for Leeds, Barkley is still determining the best strategy for Birmingham. "I want to do some due diligence on who I can trust. That’s my game plan," he explained, underscoring the importance of collaboration and trust in his efforts. He plans to work closely with Birmingham's Mayor Randall Woodfin and Michael Pickett, the interim head of the police department, to identify effective ways to make a difference. Barkley emphasized, "I want to do everything I can to help Randall and the interim police chief fix up neighborhoods and get people living in these houses again."
This initiative is not Barkley’s first foray into philanthropy. Over the years, he has donated at least $15 million to various causes and institutions. In 2024 alone, he contributed $1 million to women’s athletics at Auburn University and another $1 million specifically to the Tigers women’s basketball program. He also donated $1 million to St. Mary’s Academy in New Orleans, a school for young Black women, after being inspired by a segment on “60 Minutes” that featured two former students who achieved remarkable success in mathematics.
Barkley’s philanthropic efforts extend to educational initiatives as well. He has donated $1 million to the Alabama Community College System, aiming to lower the state’s recidivism rate as part of a broader initiative to cut it in half by 2030. Further, he has made significant contributions to ALS research in Alabama in honor of his former Auburn teammate Gary Godfrey, who was diagnosed with the disease in 2019, and has supported the Wounded Warrior Project.
In addition to these donations, Barkley has also pledged $1 million to several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), including Spelman, Tuskegee, and Morehouse, among others. In a significant move last year, he announced changes to his will, designating $5 million to Auburn University for scholarships aimed at low-income Black students. Barkley stated, "That’s just my way of trying to make sure Auburn stays diverse."
As the real estate landscape shifts, with Zillow reporting that fixer-uppers have fallen out of favor among home buyers in 2025, Barkley’s commitment to revitalizing homes in Leeds and Birmingham comes at a crucial time. The post-pandemic renovation boom has led many to prefer fully renovated properties, but Barkley sees the intrinsic value in restoring homes that need some tender loving care (TLC).
His approach not only aims to increase property values but also to spark economic growth and preserve the cultural heritage of these neighborhoods. By investing in the community, Barkley hopes to inspire others to contribute to similar initiatives that can lead to substantial improvements in urban areas.
As he embarks on this new venture, Barkley’s actions serve as a reminder of the powerful impact that one individual can have on their community. His dedication to addressing blight reflects a deep-rooted connection to his past and a vision for a better future for the residents of Leeds and Birmingham. With his experience in philanthropy and a clear plan of action, Barkley is poised to make a significant difference in the lives of many.
In a world where urban decay often goes unnoticed, Barkley’s commitment shines a light on the importance of community engagement and the potential for change. His journey from basketball stardom to community revitalization is a testament to the power of giving back and the impact of local heroes on the neighborhoods they cherish.
