The Ray Lewis I knew when I was growing up was this ferocious, hard hitting, spiritual man. As I’ve taken on a role in exploring black celebrities giving I have come across a number of athletes that weren’t on the radar as persons who give back or persons that are limited in their charity. Ray Lewis was known for trouble with the law before the multi-all pro slash future hall of fame linebacker committed his life to his Christian faith and full time NFL standout.
Don’t ask me why but when I was growing up I knew that Ray Lewis was a person who was well grounded in his faith, and as I’ve gotten older I realized that he is indeed steadfast in this beliefs but more importantly he walks a path of a God fearing person.
After his legal woes in early 2000 Lewis worked to refine and restore his reputation as a stand out linebacker and as a genuine family man. Lewis earned his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Maryland in 2004. The Florida native has been on the straight and narrow after some of his legal problems. There are the people who play the victim role when life hits them hard, but Lewis embraced it. He gives speeches at schools and universities on anti-violence. He uses his story and a single incident which happened after his Baltimore Ravens won the Superbowl and was named the MVP, and he wants people to use it as a lesson.
He established the to provide personal and economic assistance to disadvantaged youth. The foundation has funded such events as adopting ten families in Baltimore City community for the holidays, an annual celebrity auction and bowling tournament, the Great Maryland Duck Derby, Thanksgiving food drives on North Avenue in Baltimore and Ray’s Summer Days.
His determination and giving spirit is humbling and serves as a valuable life lesson, in the face of adversity is when your true character comes to light. His story and his character is at the hands of those who will listen. Those who heed his advice will have a realistic opportunity to give back and play the inspirational role that he has played for others.
For more information on the Ray Lewis 52 Foundation visit http://www.raylewis52.com/_foundation/.
