Gridiron Giving: Brian's Blessings

Today, I’m pleased to present a charity that is located practically in my own backyard, across the river in Maryland—Brian’s Blessings.

Brian’s Blessings was founded by Brian Westbrook, who grew up in Fort Washington, Maryland.  Westbrook has been a prolific running back in his nine-year career, earning 5,995 yards and 37 touchdowns, plus catching 426 passes for 3,790 yards and 29 touchdowns.  Drafted in 2002 by the Philadelphia Eagles, Westbrook spent his first eight years with Eagles before going to the San Francisco 49ers in 2010. 

For over six years, Brian’s Blessings has carried on its mission of helping less fortunate children build a sense of self-worth.  Not only does the organization provide tangible items such as food and educational materials, they strive to empower and inspire such children to set and achieve their goals.  Here are just some of the ways Brian’s Blessings helps children in the DC area:

”  Christmas Giving:  Brian’s Blessings is currently running a toy drive for underprivileged children.  Anyone wishing to participate can visit the Toys R Us Wish List database and search for Wish List #31163910;

”  Warmth Items:  The organization has distributed gloves, hats, ear muffs and other winter apparel to children and families in need;

”  Back to School:  Partnering with the Boys and Girls Club of Washington, DC, the organization has conducted school supply drives to fill backpacks that they distributed to children in need; and

”  Community Center:  Brian’s Blessings is currently seeking partners for the development of The Brian Westbrook Community Outreach Center, which will provide the space and resources for learning, recreation and fitness.

Like Charles Tillman, Westbrook was also nominated for a prestigious award to honor his service to the community:  the 2011 Jefferson Awards for Public Service.  If you would like to learn more about Brian’s Blessings, please visit their website at http://briansblessings.com.

Here are the links to the other posts so far in the Gridiron Giving series:

The Heath Evans Foundation: http://naptimehuddle.blogspot.com/2011/11/heath-evans-foundation.html

Warrick Dunn Family Foundation:  http://naptimehuddle.blogspot.com/2011/11/gridiron-giving-warrick-dunn-family.html

Rivers of Hope Foundation:  http://naptimehuddle.blogspot.com/2011/12/gridiron-giving-philip-rivers-of-hope.html

SCORE Foundation:  http://naptimehuddle.blogspot.com/2011/12/gridiron-giving-jason-wittens-score.html

Charles Tillman Cornerstone Foundation:  http://naptimehuddle.blogspot.com/2011/12/gridiron-giving-charles-tillman.html