OAKLAND, Calif. — Beloved Golden State Warrior Gary Payton II is giving a double lesson to aspiring basketball players at his GP2 Foundation Basketball Camp: athletic training and dyslexia awareness.

Founded in 2021, the GP2 Foundation was inspired by Payton’s own experience growing up with dyslexia. “I just want to be a voice for kids and athletes with dyslexia,” Payton said. “Not to be shy or afraid to ask for help… in the classroom or on the court.”

The camp, held in Oakland, offers basketball instruction from experienced coaches and a welcoming environment for children of all skill levels. Parents praised the camp’s hands-on approach and family atmosphere. “They give them the attention they need… it really makes it like a family environment,” said Cecilia, a mother of a camper.

Raquel Payton Childs, Gary’s sister and Executive Director for the GP2 Foundation, says the camp levels the playing field for student athletes. “It’s to get out of the classroom and to build confidence with all sorts of kids, not just students with dyslexia,” Childs said.

Executive Director Chair Monique Payton, Gary’s mother, said her son was diagnosed with dyslexia in fourth grade. She noted that one in five children have dyslexia, underscoring the need for resources, early screenings, and community support. “We like for kids to come and not only learn skills, but character and integrity,” she said.

The foundation also links parents with resources and screenings to diagnose and support children with dyslexia and to spread awareness. “It’s not a cookie cutter learning disability. For some it might be in writing, for others it might be in math. So it looks different. It’s all about being an advocate for your child, asking questions, and coming to the GP2 Foundation for resources,” said Childs.

“Our goal,” said Payton, “is to teach things on the court that kids can take off the court – to build confidence, communication, and teamwork.”

Learn more here.