More Than Football: How NFL Teams Are Strengthening Communities Through Local Initiatives

More Than Football: How NFL Teams Are Strengthening Communities Through Local Initiatives

The roar of the crowd, the thrill of the game, the bone-crushing hits – these are the images that often come to mind when we think of the NFL. But beyond the gridiron glory, a deeper story unfolds: one of commitment, compassion, and community impact. In 2023, the NFL averaged 17.2 million viewers per game, showcasing its massive reach, which the league leverages to drive positive change far beyond the stadium. This is the story of how NFL teams are using their influence and resources to strengthen communities through local initiatives.

The NFL Foundation: A League-Wide Commitment

At the heart of the NFL’s community efforts is the NFL Foundation. This non-profit organization works in conjunction with all 32 NFL clubs to support the health, safety, and wellness of athletes at all levels, promote youth football, and invest in the communities that support the game. Celebrating 50 years of impact, the NFL Foundation has become a leading philanthropic entity, contributing to NFL team communities, national and international disaster relief efforts, and addressing critical societal issues.

The NFL Foundation’s work is multifaceted, focusing on key areas such as:

  • Youth Health and Wellness: Through initiatives like NFL PLAY 60, the league empowers millions of kids to get physically active for at least 60 minutes a day. The NFL has committed more than $362 million to youth health and wellness, supporting programs and resources that promote healthy lifestyles.
  • Military Appreciation: The NFL’s Salute to Service is a year-round effort to honor, empower, and connect with service members, veterans, and their families. Since 2011, the NFL has raised more than $66 million for its core non-profit military partners, providing grant funds to clubs to support programs that positively impact active duty and veteran military members and their families. In 2024, George Kittle, tight end for the San Francisco 49ers, was named the recipient of the NFL’s 14th Annual Salute to Service Award for his commitment to honoring service members, veterans, and their families.
  • Cancer Prevention: The NFL and the American Cancer Society (ACS) have partnered for over a decade through Crucial Catch: Intercept Cancer. This initiative addresses early detection and risk reduction efforts for multiple cancers. Since 2009, the NFL’s Crucial Catch campaign has raised more than $30 million for the American Cancer Society.
  • Social Justice: The NFL’s Inspire Change platform supports programs and initiatives in four key areas: education, economic advancement, police-community relations, and criminal justice reform. Since 2017, the NFL has provided more than $375 million to advance social justice causes.

Team-Specific Initiatives: Local Impact

While the NFL Foundation provides a league-wide framework, individual teams also spearhead their own community initiatives, tailoring their efforts to address the specific needs of their local areas.

  • New Orleans Saints: The Saints have remained deeply engaged in community recovery following Hurricane Katrina. The “Saints Give Back” initiative combats poverty by addressing educational and health programs for kids.
  • Dallas Cowboys: The Dallas Cowboys promote health and wellness through their “Dallas Cowboys Foundation,” which supports youth sports programs and health initiatives. They also host the “Cowboys Fit” health expo, promoting fitness in the Dallas area.
  • Chicago Bears: The Chicago Bears’ “Bears Care” is a non-profit organization focused on education and youth development. Their programs include “Back to School Fair,” school supply drives, and visits to area schools.
  • Detroit Lions: Launched by Lions players and ownership, Detroit Lions Inspire Change invests in financial support through grants to Metro Detroit organizations. The Lions also host events to shine a light on multiple cancers through Crucial Catch and participate in initiatives for service members through Salute to Service.
  • San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers cultivate their legacy off the field through hands-on service projects, outreach to those who serve their communities, and creating uplifting experiences for those who need hope.

Players Leading the Charge

The NFL’s commitment to community extends beyond the league office and team facilities. Many players are actively involved in charitable work, using their platforms to raise awareness and support for various causes.

  • Russell Wilson (Denver Broncos): Wilson has focused his efforts on combating food insecurity and systemic racism. He and his wife, Ciara, have donated $1 million to Feeding America and collaborated with various organizations to deliver supplies and food to communities across the country. Wilson won the 2020 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award for his efforts.
  • Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs): Kelce supports children in underserved areas through his 87 & Running Foundation, providing access to education, athletics, STEM, and arts programs.
  • Tyrann Mathieu (New Orleans Saints): Mathieu established a charity to positively impact the lives of young people living in poverty, offering free football youth skills camps and providing backpacks stuffed with supplies to kids in New Orleans.

The Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award

The Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award is one of the league’s most prestigious honors, recognizing an NFL player for outstanding community service activities off the field, as well as excellence on the field. Each of the 32 team winners are highlighted as nominees and recognized for their important work during the weekend leading up to the Super Bowl.

More Than Just a Game

The NFL’s commitment to community initiatives demonstrates that it is more than just a game. It is a powerful platform for driving positive change, addressing critical social issues, and strengthening the communities that support the league. From the NFL Foundation’s league-wide efforts to individual teams and players making a difference in their local areas, the NFL is proving that its impact extends far beyond the gridiron.