Since launching Inspire Change in 2017, NFL players have worked alongside team owners, officials, law enforcement and community organizations to address pressing social justice challenges. In recent years, the NFL family has donated more than $375 million, supporting more than 650 local nonprofits, nearly 2,000 players and legends with matching grants, and more than 50 national partners who drive meaningful change at scale.
Anna Isaacson, Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility, betont: „For the NFL, improving the lives of people across the country in the communities we call home and beyond is more than a responsibility; it is a commitment.She adds: “December’s Inspire Change weeks shine a light on the extraordinary efforts of our partners and players, while underscoring our shared mission to advance opportunity and create stronger, more vibrant communities. We are proud to recognize and celebrate their commitment, and we remain committed to advancing this important work.”
During Inspire Change weeks, NFL clubs will transform their stadiums into powerful platforms for social justice. Stencils in the end zones with the inscriptions “It Takes All of Us”, “End Racism”, “Choose Love” and “Stop Hate” underline the league’s commitment. These inscriptions are accompanied by goalpost packaging, banners, sideline graphics and helmet stickers.
The NFL will also increase its social justice efforts digitally and in the media. The league’s social media platforms and NFL Network will feature compelling stories and videos highlighting the work of NFL players and their partners. Players featured include Minkah Fitzpatrick, Patrick Surtain II and the Jacksonville Jaguars.
This year’s Inspire Change PSAs (Public Service Announcements) highlight the impactful work of two Inspire Change grantees who are committed to building stronger communities through improved community-police relations. The PSAs, titled “Huddle Up,” use the concept of a “huddle” to show the importance of coming together as a team to initiate change. For example: Atlanta Falcons defensive end Grady Jarrett engages with members of the Atlanta Policing Alternatives & Diversion (PAD) Initiative and officers from the Atlanta Police Department to build stronger communities. Another spot shows Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze meeting with members of the Metropolitan Peace Initiatives and officers from the Chicago Police Department.
This year, the NFL will partner with Homage to sell Inspire Change t-shirts for the first time to highlight the spirit of giving. There will be 33 versions, one for each club and the entire league. Additionally, the NFL is once again partnering with Nike and New Era to provide sideline sweatshirts and headwear featuring the Inspire Change logo for coaches, players and all staff. New Era’s homage t-shirts and headwear are available for purchase at NFLShop.com/InspireChange. All proceeds from the sale of Inspire Change items benefit grants in underserved communities.
Later today, the NFL will announce its 2024 Changemakers – individuals in each NFL team market who are making a difference in their communities through their social justice work, either alone or as part of a nonprofit organization.
Next week, the NFL will also unveil its new 2025 partners working across Inspire Change’s four impact areas: education, economic progress, police-community relations and criminal justice reform.
For more information about the NFL’s Inspire Change initiative and the 2024 Social Justice Impact Report, visit www.nfl.com/inspirechange.
