Getty ImagesPanthers linebacker Thomas Davis, whose foundation helps underprivileged children, has been named the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year — the only award that recognizes players for their community service as well as their playing ability.
Davis received the award at tonight’s NFL Honors event in Phoenix.
“I am honored to be selected as the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year,” Davis said. “This award means a great deal to me, as it symbolizes the valued work that the NFL, its players, and its 32 teams do in the community. I am blessed to have such a strong support system in my family, the Carolina Panthers and the NFL, which allows me to make an impact in the communities we serve.”
Davis, who had 129 tackles for the Panthers last season, will get a $50,000 donation made to the charity of his choice.
Davis and his wife, Kelly, in 2007 started the Defending Dreams Foundation, a non-profit organization that aims to improve the quality of life for underprivileged children. The foundation reaches 2,000 children annually and has distributed more than $500,000 in financial aid since its inception.
Davis’ charitable group also includes a youth leadership academy, a 14-week, after-school mentoring program for low-income, middle school students. Each year Davis gives two college scholarships to graduating high school seniors who came through the academy.
Davis’ other community contributions include a school supplies giveaway, a Thanksgiving meal for members of a women’s shelter, and a Christmas gift giveaway for children in Charlotte, parts of South Carolina and Davis’ hometown of Shellman, Ga.
