BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. — NBA Hall-of-Famer and entrepreneur Shaquille O'Neal helped local law enforcement launch an initiative to provide sneakers to students in Broward County.
The Broward County Sheriff's Office held the "Walk a Mile in My Shoes" event in Fort Lauderdale with the athlete on Thursday with 125 middle school students who were selected by their school resource officers, according to a news release. The event was meant to bring students and law enforcement together through athletics, the release said.
While the children received new pairs of shoes, they also were able to get a behind-the-scenes look at what law enforcement does. They were able to meet K-9s and look at different vehicles used such as the sheriff's helicopter.
"It's not just about getting new pairs of sneakers but also for you to recognize the importance of what you can do with those sneakers, about chasing your dreams and pursuing your future for whatever it is you aspire to be," Sheriff Gregory Tony said.
Shaq wasn't there in person but made a video congratulating them on their new shoes. He acknowledged how having a new pair of shoes can make students feel comfortable and confident and "if you feel good, you do good."
