The Power of Connection: WTS at Sports Philanthropy World 2026

In August 2026, we had the opportunity to attend Sports Philanthropy World in Washington, D.C., hosted by the Sports Philanthropy Network at George Washington University. The event brought together athletes, nonprofit leaders, executives, funders, and community advocates committed to using sports to make a difference.

We came to learn, share our mission, and connect with people who believe, as we do, that success becomes more meaningful when it is used to serve others. We left encouraged by the conversations, grateful for new relationships, and excited about opportunities to collaborate.

From Sports to Strategic Philanthropy

One of the highlights was seeing our founder, Antomius Wise, lead an educational workshop on the “Five Pillars of Strategic Philanthropy.”

The workshop explored how leaders can move from wanting to give back to building a thoughtful, organized approach to service. Through five connected areas, education, compliance, stewardship, nonprofit status, and long-term impact, Antomius addressed the responsibilities behind charitable work and the importance of building a strong foundation for it. The discussion connected a desire to help with the knowledge, governance, and planning needed to sustain that commitment.

For Antomius, this work is personal. His experience in professional athletics, federal service, nonprofit leadership, and financial education continues to shape how he approaches service and teaches others.

His message encouraged leaders to think beyond giving money. Our time, talents, knowledge, relationships, resources, and influence also have value. Being intentional about how we use them can create opportunities for others.

That educational commitment extends to WTS Academy, which Antomius developed to provide structured learning through curriculum, frameworks, templates, and practical tools. The Academy covers strategic philanthropy, governance, nonprofit operations, and organizational growth, helping participants build the knowledge to make more informed financial and organizational decisions.

For us, sharing this knowledge was an important part of being there. We want to encourage people to serve while helping them understand what it takes to build work that lasts.

Connecting Community Service and Education

At Wise Protective Service and More, Inc. (WPSM), our work includes emergency assistance, youth development, technology access, and financial literacy education. Partnerships with other organizations help us bring together resources, expand our reach, and support more families.

Our Youth Football Camp is one example of that commitment. Through sports, wellness, and leadership experiences, we bring young people together with coaches, volunteers, and community leaders. Our “I AM” theme encourages participants to recognize their strengths, build confidence, and feel part of a community that cares about them.

We were also proud to have Wise Tax Strategies represented as an exhibitor at the conference. It gave us an opportunity to share our educational work and connect with people interested in philanthropy, financial education, and responsible planning.

As an educational program operated through WPSM, Wise Tax Strategies connects our commitment to service with helping people better understand governance, stewardship, and the responsibilities that come with philanthropic work.

We believe it is not only about building success. It is about asking:

How can we use what we have built to create opportunities for others?

The Power of Connection

One of the most rewarding parts of Sports Philanthropy World was the people we connected with.

We spent time with athletes, nonprofit leaders, business professionals, philanthropists, and others who share a passion for strengthening communities. We appreciated hearing about their work, learning from their experiences, and sharing what we are building through WPSM.

These conversations reminded us that we do not have to do everything alone. Sometimes, the next opportunity begins with listening, finding a shared purpose, and taking the time to follow up.

We are grateful to the Sports Philanthropy Network, George Washington University, and everyone who helped bring this gathering together. We look forward to continuing the conversations and exploring how we can support one another’s work.

Carrying the Experience Forward

The value of an event like this continues after we leave.

For WPSM, that means nurturing new relationships, considering ideas that fit our community’s needs, and continuing to strengthen our programs and educational work.

We returned with renewed appreciation for the people who give their time, knowledge, and resources to serve others. That same spirit guides what we are building: opportunities for young people, support for families, and education that helps people make thoughtful decisions.

We welcome conversations with organizations interested in community partnerships and educational collaboration.

Through it all, our commitment remains the same: building relationships and serving with a servant’s heart.

Remembering Mike Sweetney

Seeing Mike Sweetney at the conference was especially meaningful to me. I knew Mike from his days at Georgetown, where he played basketball with my brother. It was wonderful to see him again after so many years and have the opportunity to reconnect.

Learning of his passing made me even more grateful that our paths crossed again. I am thankful we had that moment together and took a photograph that I will now cherish.

My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, former teammates, and all who loved him. ❤️

Read more about Michael Sweetney’s life and basketball career on NBA.com.