Russell Wilson & Ciara Announce Joint Decision for Atlanta and Tease New Project in New York

Hold up—if you thought Russell Wilson and Ciara were just a power couple in sports and music, think again. Through their Why Not You Foundation, they’re championing youth empowerment, education, and wellness with unapologetic purpose. From launching mentorship programs to tackling food insecurity, Giants QB and Ciara are putting real action behind their words. And with Russell dropping wisdom like “Dream big… why not you?” and Ciara reminding us “If you don’t have food, how can you go on with your day?”—you know this isn’t just charity, it is a movement. That passion came to life in Atlanta this time.

Sharing a series of Instagram stories on July 28, Wilson captured what he called a “magical day.” The couple unveiled their second Why Not You Center, this time in Atlanta. Sharing a group photo of young students in matching green shirts that read “Keeping Atlanta’s culture,“ Wilson proudly showcased their mission of education and environmental awareness. “Brand New Why Not You Center ATL!” he wrote over the image, adding, “Today was amazing!”

The mural behind the group read, “We are on a mission to change the world and impact lives.” It was indeed a sentiment that echoed in every story that Wilson shared. He tagged @whynotyoufdn and his wife in the post. Organizations like @bgcmatl (Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta) partnered to hold the youth-centered event. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the official unveiling of the Why Not You Center ATL, where it blends arts, education, and wellness, helping underserved youth develop confidence, creativity, and leadership.

Radio Host MiAsia Symone also reflected on the new center in one of her posts, as she wrote, “Today, Ciara celebrated the renovation of the dance studio at the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta courtesy of her and @dangerusswilson’s nonprofit organization @whynotyoufdn !!!” Giving a sneak peek of the new space in one of his stories, Wilson, however, didn’t stop here. In fact, Wilson teased a new project streamlined with the current one, adding, “New York and New Jersey are underway!”

The New York branch is under development as their third permanent youth empowerment hub, following Seattle and Atlanta. Partnering with New York’s Colossal Foundation, the exact opening date and location remain unannounced.

Wilson even remarked, saying, “We’re committed to inspiring New York’s youth.” The center aligns with the couple’s mission: empowering change, one child at a time. And, these transpired on the occasion of Ciara Day, as the couple celebrated yet another important milestone.

Russell Wilson celebrates Ciara Day with a purpose

Declared during a joyful celebration in Atlanta, ‘Ciara Day‘ was officially recognized on July 28, 2024, honoring the Grammy-winning artist for her outstanding contributions—not just to music, but also to youth empowerment and philanthropy. Atlanta City Councilman Michael Julian Bond presented the proclamation in front of a cheering crowd at State Farm Arena, surprising Ciara during Missy Elliott’s Out of This World tour stop.

It marked the 20th anniversary of her breakout debut album Goodies. The moment was especially moving for Ciara, who took to Instagram with gratitude last year. She wrote, “Wow!! July 28th officially marks CIARA DAY in Atlanta!!!… Forever grateful to my city. There’s no place like Home.” And, this year, it coincided with the grand opening of the Why Not You Center ATL.

Ciara took to the stage to reflect on it, saying, “It’s been a rollercoaster of light these days, really because of the spirit of gratitude.” She added, “When I stand here, and I see all of your beautiful faces, and especially the babies… You little precious beings, you are the future.” She expressed gratitude to God, the city, and the youth in attendance.

Having just returned from Africa, where she became one of the first public figures to receive citizenship of Benin under a new law aimed at welcoming descendants of enslaved people, she added: “I got a really cool certification there… traveling back to my African explore, as they would say, roots.” Ciara described the experience as a “profound return to what truly matters.” It was a homecoming that she will carry forever.

Towards the end of her note at Atlanta, she closed it with, “I was going to grow up just like you, dreaming real big. And how much I love you.” Ciara wore a sweatshirt emblazoned with “JULY 28 CIARA DAY,” as seen in the story. Russell captioned his story, “Love you Momma @ciara.” Truly, with her signature grace and purpose, Ciara turned ‘Ciara Day’ into more than a celebration— giving back to the city that has shaped her.