Eddie Johnson to receive inaugural Positively Powerful Ally Award

The Positively Powerful Development Corporation will honor NBA legend Eddie Johnson with its first Ally Award on Oct. 9, 2026, in Phoenix. The award recognizes men whose leadership and advocacy help advance women, and Johnson is being recognized for long-running support of Helping Hands for Single Moms and other community work.

Why it matters: - The inaugural Ally Award is meant to spotlight men who visibly support women’s advancement through leadership, advocacy, mentorship and action. - Eddie Johnson’s selection ties the award’s mission to a public figure with a long community record and more than $3 million raised for a nonprofit serving single mothers. - The honor is part of a broader event focused on education, leadership and opportunity for women and future leaders.

What happened: - The Positively Powerful Development Corporation said Eddie Johnson will receive the inaugural Positively Powerful Ally Award on Oct. 9, 2026. - The presentation will take place during the 17th Annual Positively Powerful Education Summit & Woman Awards in Phoenix. - The event will be held at The George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center at 415 E. Grant Street. - The summit runs from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026.

The details: - The Ally Award will recognize a man who has demonstrated a commitment to advancing women through visible leadership, advocacy, mentorship and meaningful action. - PPDC Founder and CEO Dr. Joel P. Martin said men and organizations that use their influence to open doors and create opportunities can improve communities and lives. - Martin said Johnson has served as a community champion, celebrity ambassador and key fundraiser for Helping Hands for Single Moms. - Johnson’s connection to the cause is personal. He was also raised by a single mom. - Johnson played 17 seasons in the NBA and became one of the most beloved players in Phoenix Suns history. - Johnson continues to work as a community advocate and celebrity ambassador for multiple causes. - Helping Hands for Single Moms helps low-income single mothers pursue college education and financial independence. - The nonprofit was founded in 2001 by Chris Coffman, also identified in the release as Minister Coffman. - Johnson hosts the “Eddie Johnson & Friends” charity weekend benefiting Helping Hands for Single Moms. - Johnson has helped raise more than $3 million for the organization over the years. - Johnson said making a difference in the lives of people who are less fortunate has been a lifelong commitment. - Johnson said receiving the inaugural award is an honor. - The Ally Award will become an annual recognition for influential men whose actions help accelerate opportunities for women in business, education, entrepreneurship, public service and community leadership. - Johnson will be honored alongside tributes to Women Leaders and the inaugural Corporate Leadership Award recipients. - Individual and sponsorship registrations are open on the event website. - The summit will also coincide with the 100th anniversary of the George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center. - The event will bring together corporate executives, entrepreneurs, educators, nonprofit leaders and community changemakers for discussions on leadership, innovation and opportunity.

Between the lines: - PPDC is building the new award as a recurring platform, not a one-time honor. - The focus on men as allies reflects a broader push to frame women’s advancement as a shared leadership responsibility. - The 100th-anniversary setting adds symbolism and gives the 2026 summit a historic backdrop.

What's next: - PPDC will present Johnson with the award on Oct. 9, 2026, in Phoenix. - The organization plans to continue the Ally Award in future years. - Registration remains open for individual attendees and sponsors.

The bottom line: - Eddie Johnson is being positioned as the first face of a new award built to elevate men who actively help women rise.