How Serena Williams Is Collaborating With DoorDash To Give Back

On November 16, 2022 it was announced that DoorDash, a technology company that connects people with the best in their cities, was teaming up with Serena Williams to help DashPass members become the ultimate champions of gifting.

The Serena x DashPass Wrap Pack, designed in collaboration with Ms. Williams, is a luxe gift wrap bundle complete with wrapping paper, gift tags, and bows that elevate any gift.

Most importantly, for every wrapping paper claimed, DoorDash will donate $10, up to $50,000, to The Yetunde Price Resource Center (YPRC), which offers trauma-informed programs that promote individual and community-wide healing and resiliency.

“My family and I are passionate about giving back to the community of Compton because it gave so much to us growing up,” shared Williams. “It is important that we look after each other and give back to our communities when we can.”

“At DoorDash, we’re constantly seeking partners who share our values to uplift and empower local communities. So we’re thrilled to team up with Serena Williams to launch a campaign that not only surprises and delights DashPass members but also gives back to the community in a meaningful way,” said Kofi Amoo-Gottfried, CMO at DoorDash.

A Project Close To Serena’s Heart

The Yetunde Price Resource Center (YPRC) honors the life and memory of Serena Williams’s oldest sister, who was tragically killed by senseless violence in 2003. Yetunde left behind three children, siblings, parents, and a community that mourned her. In 2018, YPRC opened to ensure trauma survivors had the resources necessary to flourish.

“Giving back is very personal to me,” said Ms. Williams. “I created the center with my family in honor of my late sister, who was always incredibly giving to me and the rest of our sisters. She always made sure we never went without, even if she did. I am excited to partner with DoorDash to honor that spirit of giving and continue serving our resource center’s families.”

The resource center is a true extension of who Yetunde was; nurturing, loving, and always making sure others had before she did. Through her work, her compassion continued into adulthood as the mother of three and the caretaker of so many.

Since its inception, YPRC has partnered with schools, mental health providers, government organizations, and community leaders to create and implement culturally attuned free or discounted programs around conflict resolution, violence prevention, and more. They also connect community members with their vast network of specialists and nonprofits who have areas of expertise outside their own and ensure equitable access to existing resources.

Addressing Mental Health Concerns

According to the American Psychological Association, 38% of people surveyed said their stress increased during the holiday season, which can lead to physical illness, depression, anxiety, and substance misuse.

Since YPRC has been recognized as a leader in mental health programming in the Black and Brown community, when asked what advice she has for those struggling with their mental health this season, Ms. Williams responded, “Mental health and wellness for any two people looks the same. At YPRC, we can offer resources like individual and group counseling that help people navigate their daily lives. I encourage people to remove the stigma of asking for help and seek the resources to help deal with the things life throws at them.”

Recently, YPRC transitioned over 12 mental health programs to virtual platforms to serve their network of over 1,000 community members and mental health providers. They also launched a robust mental health program for high school students in Compton. The program aims to provide tools and resources for high school students struggling with heightened mental health issues due to the pandemic.

The Giving Season

The Serena x DashPass Wrap Pack is inspired by Serena’s passions, interests, and go-to gifts and features items like a game controller to represent her favorite pastime and favorite foods like moonpies, tacos, and beer. It even nods to her favorite animal and pet Yorkie, Chip.

“We know that gift-giving can evoke a combination of positive emotions, and through this collaboration, we wanted to create something that would bring a unique flair to any gift as people look to connect with their loved ones,” Amoo-Gottfried said.

As for what feelings or emotions gift-giving conveys for Ms. Williams, she answered, “Gratitude! I express my appreciation to the people in my life through gift-giving – whether through flowers or something special I found. Taking the time to show someone you were thinking of them, no matter how big or small goes a long way. I know I feel special and appreciated when I receive a gift!”

The Serena x DashPass Wrap Pack will officially be available on November 17 at 3 pm Eastern.