LaMelo Ball and Analicia Chaves, the model known professionally as Ana Montana, have announced the birth of their first child, a son named LaOne. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the Charlotte Hornets guard and Chaves shared the news alongside the debut of a new nonprofit organization inspired by their path to parenthood.

In a joint statement to PEOPLE, the couple said the arrival of their son has given them a new perspective on legacy and purpose. They noted that the experience of becoming parents has been a life-changing milestone that they are embracing with gratitude.

While the couple has generally maintained a private relationship since they were first linked, the announcement of LaOne’s birth was accompanied by the introduction of I Am Fertility. The platform and nonprofit, founded by Chaves, aims to assist women navigating reproductive health challenges and the complexities of in vitro fertilization.

Chaves shared that the initiative was born out of her personal experience with IVF. She described the process as an emotional journey that at times felt isolating, which motivated her to create a dedicated space for others facing similar circumstances. I Am Fertility is designed to offer education, emotional support, and access to reproductive health resources so that women do not have to navigate the process without a community.

A central component of the new organization is the HOPE Grant. This financial assistance program was established to help individuals cover the high costs of IVF treatments and fertility care. The program is set to award two inaugural grants of $5,000 each. Applications for the funding are scheduled to open on Mother’s Day and will remain available through June 1.

Ball, a former NBA Rookie of the Year and All-Star, has spent five seasons with the Hornets. This personal update marks one of the most significant public glimpses into the private lives of the professional athlete and Chaves as they transition into their new roles as parents and advocates for reproductive health.