Kobe Bryant to participate in UnitedWay Homewalk

Kobe Bryant will soon embark on a challenge that is far more pressing than trying to prove he can morph back into an elite player following two major injuries.

The Lakers’ star will participate in the United Way’s Homewalk on Nov. 15 at Exposition Park as part of his ongoing effort to raise funds and awareness for reducing homelessness. Participants can join a 5k walk or run for a $20 registration fee.

Bryant and his wife Vanessa, launched their self-named foundation in the summer of 2011, which has included various initiatives in eradicating homelessness. They began began sponsoring My Friend’s Place, a nonprofit resource center on Hollywood Boulevard that offers free emergency services to homeless youth. Two years ago, Bryant visited the L.A. Mission and spent a night on skid row. He also hosted an event in Hollywood where he met with former U.S. president Bill Clinton, who heads the Clinton Global Initiative.

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