Who knew the Summer of 2014 would be filled with Football and Philanthropy? Well, apparently most NFL fans knew, because these pro-athletes have been giving back to their communities for years.
You would think during the off season, they would frolic to warm weather vacation destinations, b-lining away from news crews and media, however that is not the case and I have proof 🙂
MARCUS TRUFANT | SEATTLE SEAHAWKS | TRUFANT FAMILY FOUNDATION
Trufant Family Foundation’s Mission:
To help make dreams come true for disadvantaged youth and their families and to build a personal connection and involvement with individuals and community programs that provide service to people who are most in need.
We focus our energies in three major areas to help improve the quality of life for children which include: College Scholarships, Youth Camp, Experience Programs and Fitness Programs for Children and Adults.
We support specific community programs, such as; the Boys and Girls Clubs, Hearts for Kids, Sickle Cell Camp, Communities In School, The Salvation Army and more.
EARL THOMAS, III | SEATTLE SEAHAWKS | GUARDIAN ANGEL FOUNDATION
Earl Thomas, III picks out the next bicycle to be given away to a child during his foundation’s bike giveaway over the Summer. Sixty bicycles were given to children by the Earl Thomas III Guardian Angel Foundation at Sixth Street Community Church in Orange, TX.
Growing up, Earl Thomas was lucky enough to have a strong, supportive family around him, but his life was not without hardship. His beginnings were humble and fraught with adversity, culminating with the loss of the family home in Orange, Texas, during Hurricane Rita in 2005. Earl knows what it is to go without, which is why it remains so crucially important to him to give back to others.
In addition to various NFL-oriented community service activities like Play 60, Earl carries out a series of yearly efforts to help those who are less fortunate get back on their feet. His work annually includes a Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway, Winter Coat Drive, and a Free Summer Football Camp for children in the town where he grew up.
MICHAEL JOHNSON | TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS | MJ93 FOUNDATION
On Tuesday, June 15, 2014, Johnson raised funds for MJ93 at the second annual Beauty and the Beast Swag Lounge pre-ESPY day party in L.A. presented by Trea Day Management and Publicity in conjunction with BMB Entertainment. The event was sponsored by Myx Fusions, LPL financial, Euphoric Treasures, Hula Girl, God Can and Marani Vodka. A-list guests, athletes and celebrities contributed to the fundraising by donating hundreds of dollars toward the cause. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Michael Johnson has always had a heart for children and aspired to make a difference in children’s lives. When he was a youngster, Johnson often times gave to children less fortunate than he. A burning passion for helping those in need coupled with the desire to help children succeed were the driving forces that lead Johnson to create MJ93 as an NFL rookie, an organization that supports and encourages the education, mentorship, health and fitness of children.
The event was a major success and will allow MJ93 to continue to host their annual football and cheer camp, allow students to attend the MJ93 computer certificate program and to continue the Let’s Move Initiative launched by first lady Michelle Obama in an attempt to combat childhood obesity.
MATT LEINART | BUFFALO BILLS | THE MATT LEINART FOUNDATION
The Matt Leinart Foundation is committed to granting resources and opportunities to support disadvantage youth through learning centers, sports activities and granting wishes: to build character development, and help each child maximize academic and personal achievement.
The Matt Leinart Foundation is a California 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization designed to provide opportunities to children who would normally not receive them. The children may come from financially and/or socially disadvantaged areas, or may have permanent physical and /or mental disabilities. Among other charities, the Foundation supports the Banner’s Children’s Hospital in Phoenix; Los Angeles’ Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times; and Phoenix, Arizona based charity, Vested Interest.
This has been an incredible summer to say the least. I’ve had the opportunity to meet w/ these pro-ballers and it’s clear that their commitment surpasses the game. They have my utmost respect.
Understand you don’t have to be a celebrity to give back to your community, youth or your favorite charity. Check out their foundations below and make your contribution today!!!
Many Blessing!
#NFL #SEASONOPENER
Trufant Family Foundation | A Dream is a Path to The Future
MJ93 | Michael Johnson Vision for Success
Matt Leinart Foundation | Because Children Are OUR Future
Many Blessings!!!
Lady Scribe
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