Some build fortune, some choose to build it and to give back to society, and Udonis Haslem is no doubt the latter. He aimed to bring in $5 million for his initiative, Bounce Back from Cancer. Former Heat player Alonzo Mourning is also part of the initiative. Created in association with the Baptist Health Foundation and the Miami Heat, this project helps families and individuals affected by the disease. Both Haslem and Mourning share the same goal, which is to contribute to society. And this same motivation drives their other initiatives as well. Both Mourning and Haslem’s new projects now address one of the serious issues in Miami.
On the OGs podcast, Mourning explained that while it may be business, for them, it’s also about helping their people. Speaking of Miami, both the former players were in awe and all praises about the growth and development creating waves. However, the 7x NBA All-Star mentioned the housing issues in Miami that have also been troubling the natives. Udonis Haslem also agreed. Mourning went on to add how they have been working to assist those in crisis.
“UD and I are developing affordable housing down here you know which is much needed and there’s a shortage of 19,000 affordable houses just here in South Florida and I’m actually working on phase two of an affordable housing project in Overtown 120 units,” he shared. “U(donis) is about to do a ribbon cutting of another affordable housing project…It’s a tremendous need. There’s a shortage of 7 million affordable houses across the country.” He further added.
The one he was referring was Wynwood Works, a 12-story, 120-unit affordable housing project, opened in February 2025 in Miami’s vibrant Wynwood District. Designed to provide much-needed housing options for the community, the development reflects a commitment to affordability in one of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Among those involved in the initiative is former Miami Heat player Udonis Haslem, whose dedication to community development has played a key role in bringing the project to life.
Individuals whose income is less than 60% of the median are encouraged to apply for the homes. These apartments, which will likely feature one-, two-, and three-bedroom options, will have monthly rents ranging from $1,161 to $1,610. This is Haslem’s second deal for his Haslem Housing Venture which follows the same aim to provide affordable abodes for people.
Jul 10, 2012; Hollywood, CA, USA; Miami Heat former center Alonzo Mourning speaks at the 2012 Gatorade national athlete of the year awards ceremony at the Loews Hollywood Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-USA TODAY Sports
And like the Heat legend said, he is also part of an affordable homes project.
Alonzo Mourning extends his help in building affordable homes
For his project, the Miami Heat legend also chose Miami and its Overtown neighborhood. He joined hands with the Miami-Dade County Public Housing and Community Development and the Housing Trust Group. As he said, the aim is to build a 120-unit complex for people. And much like Haslem’s project, Mourning’s new initiative will also encourage the individuals earning between $40,000 and $50,000 per year to apply for the apartments.
“Right here in South Florida, there are so many people that were born and raised here that can’t afford to live here anymore. What we’re trying to do–we’re trying our best to create dignified, safe, very high-class affordable housing,” Mourning said.
The property will feature amenities such as a clubhouse, a dog park, a fitness center, and bike storage. Moreover, programs including financial, job, and literacy support will also be offered on-site. The two have taken it upon themselves to explore different ways to contribute to society.
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