Governor Pat Quinn Names Chicago Bulls Great As Senior Advisor for Youth Outreach

CHICAGO – October 24, 2009. Governor Pat Quinn today named former Chicago Bulls point guard B.J. Armstrong as senior advisor for youth outreach. The announcement, made at the James R. Jordan Boys and Girls Club and Chicago Bulls Family Life Center on the West Side of Chicago, is another move in Governor Quinn’s continuing effort to stress the importance of anti-violence programs for youths and the positive influence such efforts have on our community.

“I am proud to team up with B.J. Armstrong, who is a great role model for our youth because he’s a winner on the basketball court and in the all-important game of life. In his new role, B.J. Armstrong will continue to guide and assist young people in Chicago and throughout our state,” said Governor Quinn. “It is essential that we continue to support programs that strengthen communities and provide our children with healthy alternatives to risky behavior.”

Armstrong will advise the Governor on youth sports and programs related to curtailing obesity, promoting sportsmanship and civic engagement, and strengthening community support for youth. He will also work on projects dealing specifically with children and youth after-school programs. The position is honorary and unpaid.

“Young people who are subject to violence and crime need strong support from their community and family to stay healthy and safe,” said Armstrong. “I thank Governor Quinn for appointing me to this position, which allows me to positively impact our youth.”

As a starting point guard for the Chicago Bulls in the early 1990s, Armstrong was a key member of the team dynasty that dominated the National Basketball Association (NBA) and won six championships in eight years with legendary players that included Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. In 1994, Armstrong was voted a starter in the NBA All-Star game and finished second in the league in three-point field goal percentage. Until late in the 1996-1997 season, he had played 577 consecutive games. Armstrong has three NBA championship rings.

The James R. Jordan Boys and Girls Club and Chicago Bulls Family Life Center offers visitors the opportunity to play basketball in the state-of-the-art gymnasium, receive employment skills training, make use of day care service for infants and toddlers, and cook a meal in the restaurant-like kitchen, among other things. The Center is just a few blocks from the United Center, home of the Chicago Bulls.