Myles Turner’s W.A.R.M. Initiative: Giving Back in Indy and Texas

On the basketball court, Myles Turner has built a reputation as a defensive anchor and franchise cornerstone for the Indiana Pacers. But off the court, his impact runs even deeper, rooted in compassion, community, and a growing desire to give back to those who need it most.

Turner’s connection to Indianapolis goes well beyond basketball. Since arriving in the city as a teenager, the Dallas-Fort Worth native has made it his mission to give back to the community that welcomed him with open arms.

“The community of Indianapolis took me in when I was a teenager, and it was only right that I gave back,” Turner tells Grant Afseth of Sportskeeda. “It was only right that I gave them something of myself, and I am trying to continue to do that.”

That effort has taken shape through Turner’s W.A.R.M. Initiative—short for We All Really Matter. The program is designed to provide practical, compassionate support to the city’s unhoused population through “go bags” packed with everyday essentials. Each bag includes items like lotion, deodorant, hand warmers, snacks, and handwritten notes of encouragement. It’s a simple yet powerful act of kindness—one that can be life-changing during tough times.

Turner has consistently activated his loyal fan section, Turner’s Block, to help pack the bags, creating a genuine connection between his platform and the people he serves. It’s becoming a tradition rooted in service and love, one that brings his community together with a purpose.

But Turner isn’t stopping there.

“W.A.R.M. is continuing to grow,” he said. “We’re trying to grow into the pet space. Now, we’re trying to get like dogs, cats, and different domesticated animals to get packs to them.”

For Turner, the next evolution of W.A.R.M. Means considering the needs of homeless individuals and their four-legged companions. From food to blankets and small comforts, his vision includes offering dignity and support for pets too often forgotten in the conversation around homelessness.

While Indianapolis remains close to his heart, Turner’s roots in Texas are also calling him back home. He’s been making moves in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, particularly with his youth basketball camps held at Jermaine O’Neal’s renowned Drive Nation facility.

“I’m moving in the direction of trying to get back in Texas,” Turner said. “I think it’s big for me as well with my camp, incorporated, and it means everything to me.”

His free camps provide kids of all ages a fun, competitive environment to learn basketball skills while building confidence and character. Turner is intensely hands-on, often taking the court with campers to share advice, encouragement, and a few blocked shots—classic Turner style.

As he continues to expand his footprint in both Indianapolis and Texas, Turner is also locked in for another playoff push with the Pacers. As one of the better teams in the Eastern Conference, Indiana will lean on his leadership, shot-blocking, and versatility for another deep postseason run.

Still, no matter how high the stakes are on the hardwood, Turner never loses sight of the bigger picture.

Whether it’s through W.A.R.M., his camps, or the quiet acts of generosity that don’t always make headlines, Myles Turner is building a legacy defined by more than stats and highlights. He’s building it on service—and reminding us all that we all matter.