For Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, his I Promise School in Akron, Ohio is one of his most important projects to date. Recounting his tough childhood, James believes that it is imperative to empower kids.

In an IG Live session, James shared that there came a time when he questioned himself, particularly if there's someone who actually believed in him and in his dreams. Citing this experience, James said that it is important to let kids know that they have the capacity to achieve anything.

“If kids know that you believe in them and that you love them and that you trust them, then they have the most powerful minds,” the Lakers superstar said.

Opened in 2018, the I Promise School (IPS) aims to support some of Akron’s most challenged students through education. Supported by the LeBron James Family Foundation, the school prioritizes students who are considered high-risk or may not have the opportunities to study, providing them with mentoring and the preparation to be successful in the future.

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Amid the COVID-19 pandemic which has shut down most countries, James and his school have helped out students and their respective families who are affected by the lockdown. Per Mark Medina of USA Today, Executive Director of the LeBron James Family Foundation Michelle Campbell shared how the Lakers forward initiated to keep the school open to help those affected by the city-wide lockdowns.

“‘We need to make that happen,’” Campbell told USA TODAY Sports about James’ recent conversation with her. “‘We need to do whatever we can to make that happen and make these services to stay open.’”

The I Promise School partnered with Smuckers and Akron Food Bank to hand out basic necessity packages to its 1,443 enrolled students and their families. Also, the school's Family Resource Center remains open for any families that need shelter, clothing, medical care, and mental health assistance.