Supporting Research and Raising Awareness to Fight Prostate Cancer Nationwide
During last night’s Atlanta Hawks game, presented by Emory Healthcare, the Atlanta Hawks Foundation, in partnership with the Ressler Gertz Family Foundation, announced a generous $150,000 donation to the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF). This contribution underscores the organizations’ shared commitment to raising awareness of prostate cancer and supporting critical research initiatives aimed at improving prevention, detection, and treatment of this disease. The announcement came during a special presentation at the game, highlighting how professional sports organizations can use their platforms to advance meaningful health causes in their communities.
The $150,000 donation represents a combination of contributions from both foundations. The Atlanta Hawks Foundation pledged $75,000 to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, which has long been recognized as a leading organization driving innovation in the prevention, detection, and treatment of prostate cancer. The Foundation’s work includes fostering collaborative research, advancing clinical trials, and supporting initiatives at institutions such as Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, where groundbreaking research continues to transform the understanding and management of prostate cancer.
Matching the Hawks Foundation’s commitment, the Ressler Gertz Family Foundation—established by Hawks’ Principal Owners Tony Ressler and Jami Gertz—doubled the impact by contributing an additional $75,000. This joint effort brought the total donation to $150,000 for the 2026 season. Since 2019, the partnership between the Atlanta Hawks and the Prostate Cancer Foundation has proven highly effective, with combined donations surpassing one million dollars over the years. This collaboration illustrates the power of sustained, community-focused philanthropy, particularly in addressing health disparities and advancing medical research.
David Lee, Executive Vice President of External Affairs and Executive Director of the Atlanta Hawks Foundation, reflected on the partnership, stating, “At the Hawks, we believe meaningful partnerships can create lasting impact. Our collaboration with the Prostate Cancer Foundation and Winship Cancer Institute allows us to elevate awareness around prostate cancer while helping advance research.” Lee emphasized that sports organizations have a unique opportunity to engage broad audiences, spark conversations around health issues, and encourage proactive care among fans and communities.
The Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Georgia’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, plays a crucial role in this effort. Known for its pioneering research and patient-centered approach, Winship provides expert care and innovative treatment options for individuals diagnosed with cancer. Through partnerships like the one with the Hawks Foundation, Winship continues to push the boundaries of cancer research, supporting studies that explore everything from early detection methods to targeted therapies that improve outcomes for patients with prostate cancer.
Gina Carithers, President and CEO of the Prostate Cancer Foundation, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support. “We are incredibly thankful for the continued generosity of the Atlanta Hawks Foundation and the Tony Ressler and Jami Gertz Family Foundation,” Carithers said. “This contribution will directly support research initiatives and bring us closer to our goal of eliminating prostate cancer.” The PCF’s work spans funding for innovative research programs, community education, and patient support, all of which rely heavily on philanthropic contributions from organizations and individuals committed to ending this disease.
The check presentation included several prominent figures in the healthcare and philanthropic communities. Hawks Foundation Board member Arjun Shah and David Lee presented the donation, alongside Monica Boswell, Senior Vice President of Business Partnerships at the Prostate Cancer Foundation, Phillip J. Koo, MD, Chief Medical Officer at PCF, and Keith B. Shoates, PMP, Vice President of the Office of the CEO at Vista Equity Partners. Also present was Dr. Martin G. Sanda, Louis McDonald Orr Distinguished Professor of Urology at Emory University School of Medicine and Director of the Center for Prostate Cancer Detection at Winship Cancer Institute. Their presence highlighted the strong collaboration between medical experts, community leaders, and philanthropists in driving awareness, research, and patient care.
One of the key goals of this donation is to raise awareness about the importance of prostate cancer screening, particularly among Black men, who face disproportionately higher risks. According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. However, Black men are 76% more likely to develop the disease and more than twice as likely to die from it compared to their white counterparts. Statistically, one in six Black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their lives. Early detection remains critical, as prostate cancer detected at an early stage has a greater than 99% five-year survival rate, highlighting the life-saving importance of screening programs, education, and community outreach.
Beyond the financial impact, this partnership demonstrates the social responsibility of professional sports organizations in using their influence to champion public health. The Atlanta Hawks, through their foundation, continue to integrate health-focused initiatives into their broader community engagement strategy. These efforts include public education campaigns, targeted awareness programs, and support for scientific research that could lead to better treatment options for patients nationwide. By joining forces with the Ressler Gertz Family Foundation, the Hawks Foundation amplifies the impact of its charitable efforts, ensuring that contributions translate into tangible benefits for patients, researchers, and families affected by prostate cancer.
Over the years, the collaboration between the Atlanta Hawks and the Prostate Cancer Foundation has become a model for how sports organizations can leverage their visibility and community presence to make a measurable difference. From funding critical research at institutions like Winship Cancer Institute to supporting programs aimed at improving health equity, the partnership reflects a holistic approach to philanthropy, combining awareness, education, and actionable support for those affected by prostate cancer.
In closing, the $150,000 donation presented during last night’s game is more than a financial contribution—it is a reaffirmation of a shared commitment to combating prostate cancer, reducing disparities, and advancing life-saving research. As the Atlanta Hawks, the Ressler Gertz Family Foundation, and the Prostate Cancer Foundation continue their partnership, the ultimate goal remains clear: to save lives, improve outcomes, and ensure that every individual has access to the knowledge, care, and treatments necessary to fight prostate cancer effectively.
