Seattle Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett has never been shy about speaking his mind, but in 2017, he will be putting his money where his mouth is. Bennett is committing to donating half of his endorsement incentives to support causes promoting growth in minority communities and empower women of color.
Bennett hopes others will consider doing the same for the causes they believe.
“I was inspired by Chance the Rapper to ‘think bigger’ when he pledged one million dollars to Chicago kids and their school system,” Bennett said in a statement. “So, I’ll be joining him by investing in the future of our youth. The system is failing our kids, and it will be up to the community and our leaders to help keep the hope alive by focusing on improving our education system and the future of our kids. Any company that decides to invest in me, just know that you’ll be investing in opportunities and providing inspiration for these families — many who feel unnoticed or go unmentioned.”
BREAKING NEWS: @NFL star Michael Bennett @mosesbread72 to donate all of his 2017 endorsement money to rebuild minority communities
— rolandsmartin (@rolandsmartin) March 9, 2017
This is not the first time Bennett has spoken his mind in reference to the best interest of kids in the community. Last July, Bennett shredded Steph Curry of the Golden State Warriors (and others) for running crazy expensive camps. Bennett’s charitable mindset comes from his own background, previously citing his parents as two people who gave all they could to their community and him developing a desire to give back in any way he could. By donating back to inner city projects, Bennett will continue to do just that, and it makes for a brilliant PR move not only for him, but also any company wanting to get him on board as a spokesperson or client.
In addition to donating all of his endorsement money, Bennett has also pledged to donate 50 percent of the proceeds from jersey sales to inner-city garden projects. Athletes doing their part to back up their own calls for action among pro athletes is worth respecting, and right now Bennett has all the respect in the world for this announcement.
[ESPN]
