Philly Baird is the Change Foundation
Philly Baird truly lived the belief: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Born Robert Joseph Baird, Philly grew up in the foster care system from age four through adulthood, facing challenges and hardships no child should endure. Despite a difficult childhood marked by instability and abuse, Philly chose a different path—one defined by resilience, compassion, and purpose. He often said he felt the city of Philadelphia raised him, which is why he proudly took the name “Philly" and had his name officially changed as an adult.
What got him through those early years—basketball, mentors, and hope—became the foundation of how he lived his life.
Philly dedicated himself to helping others, especially children. As a coach, mentor, and role model, he believed being an athlete meant being a student and a leader first. He didn’t just coach sports—he taught life. He invested in kids who needed it most, often paying fees, buying equipment, team pictures, and making sure no child was left out.
Philly’s impact went far beyond the court. He lived with intention—helping the homeless, supporting single mothers, lifting up strangers, and always looking for ways to make someone’s day better. His acts of kindness, big and small, created a ripple effect that touched countless lives.
Even in his final days, Philly used his voice to help others—encouraging people to protect themselves and think about those around them. His message reached and influenced many.
Above all, Philly loved deeply—especially his children, who meant everything to him even though they lived 1000's of miles apart.
The Philly Baird is the Change Foundation was created to carry forward his mission:
To inspire others to give back, lift others up, and make a difference—no matter how big or small.
Philly believed:
We invite you to be part of that movement.
Because real change starts with each of us.




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The Philly Baird Is The Change Foundation was created to carry forward the values that mattered most to Philly.
The mission of the Philly Baird Is The Change Foundation is to
Now in our fourth year, the Philly Baird is the Change Foundation continues to grow its impact—thanks to supporters like you.
Your donations directly fund:
Every dollar makes an impact.
Your support allows us to:
👉 Donate today and be part of the ripple effect.
We recognize and support high school seniors who embody Philly’s values through action, leadership, and service.
Scholarship amounts vary based on available funding and number of applicants.
👉 Apply or nominate a student
Throughout the year, we host and support events that:
These events are more than gatherings—they are opportunities to create real impact and inspire others to take action.
Everything we do is rooted in Philly’s belief:
“It’s not what you have, it’s what you do with what you have.”
“Small acts, when multiplied by many, can transform the world.”
We invite you to join us.
Be the Change. Create the ripple.
Copyright © 2026 Philly Baird is the Change - All Rights Reserved.

Welcome!
Thank you for joining us!
We are focused solely on making a difference by Being the Change we all wish to see in the world.
Thank you for joining the movement Philly started for us all.
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