courtesy of Tallahassee WCTV
Florida A&M University [FAMU] athletes not only perform like champions on the field but make their marks as life champions in the community as well.
Rattler athletes took some time out of their busy morning schedules to volunteer in the community for their “Meals on Wheels” initiative this past Wednesday.
This initiative is catered to providing senior citizens in the local community with a healthy meal prepared and delivered to their homes by FAMU athletes. Many of the senior citizens are FAMU alumni dating back to the 1940s. They always seem to have an energy spurt whenever they see their fellow Rattler athletes come into their communities.
FAMU Football Sophomore Running Back, Gerald Hearns, and Junior Safety Jacques Bryant are both supporters of the initiative.
Hearns has participated in this program since his freshmen year and looks forward to giving back to his Rattler community.
“It is such a great feeling to be able to give back to local members of the community from the heart and not look for anything in return.” Hearns said. “It’s truly a blessed feeling.”
Meal on Wheels has been spearheaded traditionally by team leaders from various FAMU athletic teams, so this community initiative is one that is student driven.
Bryant is a native of Tallahassee and he appreciates the opportunity to be able to give back to his own community.
“It’s important for us to give back to the community because they support us so we in return support them in all ways we can.” Bryant said. “It’s a blessing knowing that we are helping people that are not able to do things for themselves.”
FAMU women’s head basketball coach, LeDawn Gibson, is proud that members on her team are stepping up being leaders in the community and expects them to continue their efforts.
“I’m a very traditional type coach.” Gibson said. “I’ve always been taught it is better to give than to receive. We want our ladies to touch lives from the inside out.”
Meal on Wheels is not the only player community initiative. Athletes also participate in “Lunch Buddies,” which is a time where athletes visit students at different elementary schools in Tallahassee to mingle and get a chance to know the students.