It’s that time of year again! After having to be separated last year, it’s an extra special time for so many families. Unfortunately, the pandemic left many families in need, especially during the holidays. Athletes have always been some of the most charitable people and they are making impactful changes in their communities. Here are how some of our favorite athletes are giving back to their communities.
Najee Harris
Having spent time in a shelter with his mom and four older siblings, Steelers rookie Najee Harris knew he wanted to do something for those currently living in a similar situation. Returning to Greater Richmond Interfaith Program, the shelter he and his family spent time in, during his time at Alabama he took mental notes about what needed to be updated. It started with ripping up the carpet and bringing in fresh. That was just the first step. Via video call, Harris was able to see volunteers embark on the repairs that he and his mother had mapped out. His mom was one of the volunteers there transforming the building. The goal was to turn the two-story building into more of a home feeling instead of a facility. While initially embarrassed to talk about spending time in a shelter, Harris realized how much good he could do with his platform. Wanting to expand and help others, Harris is thinking about opening his own shelter.
Myles Garrett
Myles Garrett may have had a cemetery of quarterbacks he’s sacked on Halloween, but for Thanksgiving, he’s taking a much less scary approach. Garrett was recently named brand ambassador for United Way of Cleveland. Yesterday, Garrett hosted a “Home for the Holidays” event. He provided winter clothes and school supplies for local youth.. Children and their families were able to spend time with Garrett. He hopes to continue this tradition for as many years as he is in Cleveland.
Phoenix Suns
The Suns have been in the news the last few weeks for some awful allegations directed at team owner Robert Sarver and his wife. While there is an ongoing investigation, the players are making much more positive headlines this holiday season. Much like he has done with every new team he has joined throughout his career, center Javale McGee tried to identify an issue within the community. This week he hosted a Thanksgiving dinner for families and youth from Child Crisis Arizona. The organization provides a safe and abuse-free environment for children by helping their entire families. Teaming up with local non-profit Society of St. Vincent de Paul, McGee’s teammates Cam Johnson and Jalen Smith also volunteered their time.
DeAndre Ayton is hosting a food drive with the goal of collecting 100,000 pounds of food for the United Food Bank. Those who donated also had ta chance to win signed items from Phoenix’s big man as well as a chance to win $1,000.00.
Marshawn Lynch
Marshawn Lynch has always been one of the most charitable athletes. Last year, he handed out 200 turkeys in Hawaii. Before that, he held multiple food drives, including turkey drives, in his hometown Oakland, California.
This year, the former running back is trying to teach Bay Area children about climate change and preserving the environment. His Fam 1st Family Foundation is teaming up with a local solar-powered organic farm. To promote the cause, Lynch sat in on an eighth-grade science class, and naturally, hilarity ensued.
