Malcolm Jenkins, Jonathan Casillas, Jason Worilds: Three special athletes, people

 By John Haley/For The Star-Ledger

on June 22, 2014 8:46 p.m.

People who surround NFL players Malcolm Jenkins, Jonathan Casillas and Jason Worilds continually use words like special, different, caring, generous, hard-working …Not only has their exceptional athletic ability led them to successful careers in professional football and to a Super Bowl, but they are using their fame as a platform to touch the lives of others.That was all on display this weekend when all three were out there sweating on their own dime to head up camps at their respective high schools, something they don't have to do, but want to do.All for free.Jenkins, 6-foot, 205 pounds, is a five-year pro out of Piscataway High School where he stood out in football and track, leading the Chiefs to three straight sectional titles at wide receiver/defensive back and winning the 400 meters at the Meet of Champions as a junior.

Malcolm Jenkins (left) with Piscataway High School coach Dan Higgins.(Photo by Cynthia Vaughn)

 

An All-American defensive back at The Ohio State, Jenkins won the Jim Thorpe Award as a senior, which is awarded to the top defensive back in the country.The No. 14 pick in the 2009 NFL draft, Jenkins played five  years with the Saints, winning a Super Bowl in 2010 and was eventually named the team's defensive captain. In March, Jenkins signed a three-year contract with the Eagles as a free safety.“Malcolm is a born winner, a born leader,'' said Piscataway coach Dan Higgins. “He is all about hard work and giving back. He has to be one of the hardest working players in the NFL and that's on and off the field. What a role model he is and we're so proud of him here at Piscataway.''Casillas, 6-foot-1, 230 pounds, is a five-year pro out of New Brunswick High School who starred in football, basketball and track. He helped lead the Zebras to a sectional title with a 12-0 record in 2003, only the school's second unbeaten season in over 100 years of existence. He also finished third in the 100-meter dash at the Meet of Champions as a senior.After a serious knee injury at Wisconsin curtailed his college career, Casillas signed with the Saints as a free agent and wound up starting at linebacker. He was on the Super Bowl winning team with Jenkins in 2010 and was the player officially credited with recovering the onsides kick to start the second half.Casillas, who has persevered despite multiple surgeries in college and in the pro's, played with New Orleans for three years and is now in his second year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He missed the entire 2010 season after suffering a foot injury in the pre-season and suffered a season-ending knee injury after the 12th game of last season. In March, Casillias signed a one-year deal with Tampa Bay and is listed as the starting strong side linebacker on the team's depth chart.

From left, Diana Starace, SafeKids Coordinator for Middlesex County (Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital); Malcolm Stansbury, fastest man award winner in his age group; Malcolm Jenkins; Gwendolyn V. Jenkins, President, The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation (Photo by Cynthia Vaughn)

 

“His work ethic as a student and an athlete is what set Jonathan apart from the others,'' said New Brunswick head coach Don Sofilkanich, who was an assistant when Casillas played at New Brunswick. “He was always so focused on doing things the right way in the classroom, on the football field and in the community. Those are the things which led him to the success he is having and he continues to live like that. He's such a special kid.''Worilds, 6-foot-2, 260 pounds, was a First Team, All-State pick at Carteret where he played on the defensive line, linebacker and fullback. Worilds went on to star at Virginia Tech before the Steelers drafted him as the 52nd pick in the 2010 draft. He is now a four-year rising star with the Steelers as the starting right outside linebacker and signed a transitional contract in March. Worilds helped the Steelers reach the Super Bowl in 2011, but was inactive for the game.“From high school to college to the pros, he's the first one at practice, the last to leave,'' said Carteret assistant coach Keith Kapinos. “He works harder than any kid I've ever seen and when people ask him why he works to hard, he'll tell them his mother had to work three jobs, sometimes 20 hours a day to provide for her family and that's hard work, not what he does. He's just a different kid.''MALCOLM JENKINSWhen Jenkins first signed with the Saints, he naturally donated his time, visiting sick children, donating money for the homeless and was involved with several other causes in the New Orleans area.

His mother, Gwendolyn V. Jenkins, noticed her son doing all these things, so she came up with an idea to make his presence felt on a larger scale.“He was doing all these things under the radar, going to hospitals, donating money and being so involved in the community,'' explained Gwendolyn. "So I said 'let's put a focus on this, create a foundation and we can reach out to a larger audience. Malcolm first funded the project with $10,000 out of his own pocket.''The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation was born and is now in its fifth year with Gwendolyn serving as its president. This is third year Jenkins has run a free camp at Piscataway High.

From The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation mission statement: ''The Foundation's mission is to effectuate positive change in the lives of youth, particulary in underserved communities; by providing resources, innovative opportunities and experiences that will help them succeed in life and become contributing members of the community. The Foundation is committed to youth development initiatives and programs, which emphasizes mentorship, character development, leadership, education, life skills, health and recreation.''THE MALCOLM JENKINS FOUNDATIONThe Jenkins camp attracted 400 kids ranging from ages 7-17 on Friday and Saturday.

Malcolm Jenkins inspiring campers (Photo by Cynthia Vaughn)

 

The camp featured NFL players who flew in from all over the country using their own money and who were out there sweating while going through drills with all the campers. Each player gave a inspirational speeches about their journey to the NFL and about the importance of education and giving back to the community.This year, former Piscataway stars Dwayne Gratz (Jaguars) and Stephen Miller (Lions) were on hand, along with Larry Fitzgerald (Cardinals), Jahri Evans (Saints), Brian Robiskie (Titans), Vinny Curry (Eagles), Isa Abdul-Quddus (Lions) and Usama Young (Raiders).

     

“I was really looking forward to this,'' said Gratz, who finished up his rookie season as the starting left corner for the Jags. “It's a great feeling to give back and it's something I plan on doing a lot through football.''“This is something I enjoy, it's close to my heart,'' said Jenkins. “At Piscataway, it was always stressed for us to give back whether we make it to the NFL or are just members of the community, so this is just a natural thing for me. The camp gets bigger and bigger each year as our foundation, so it's something to be proud of.''

Malcolm Jenkins in his new Philadelphia Eagles uniform (Bill Streicher/USA Today)

Added Higgins, “I get excited about this as much as anyone. The effects of having these NFL players here is far more impressionable to kids than seeing them on TV in their uniforms. It gives these kids a chance to be involved in their lives for a day, a chance to reach out and touch them in person.“We always preach giving back here at Piscataway, so when I see them out here doing it, I get just as much satisfaction as winning a championship. These are great players, but great people.''The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation is involved with so many organizations in New Orleans, New Jersey and now Philadelphia as it continues to build. This year the Foundation formed a partnership with Johnson & Johnson, SafeKids New Jersey Division, which offered  sessions for the adult campers on Concussion Recognition & Recovery, Nutrition and Hydration, Acute and Overuse Injuries, Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Athletes and Anti-Bullying.Parents of all campers were invited to a session on Health/Wellness and Sports Safety Information.For full article go to http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-3693440041044336462/malcolm-jenkins-jonathan-casillas-jason-worilds-three-special-athletes-people/ 

TMJF Offers Vouchers for FREE Baseline Concussion Test

A NEW feature of the The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation 2014 Next Level Youth Football Camp (June 20-21) includes the provision of a voucher for a FREE base-line concussion test for campers age 11-17 through its partnership with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset ~ Sports Performance & Rehabilitation Center.The ImPACT (Immediate Post Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) is one important piece of the overall concussion evaluation and management process.  It is a sophisticated test of cognitive abilities which can be used as a tool for health care professionals to track the recovery of cognitive processes, make decisions about academic needs or modifications, and to help communicate post-concussion status to athletes, coaches, and parents following concussion.  The ImPACT test is ideally completed prior to the athlete's sport season and takes about 25-30 minutes to complete and is non-invasive.

• ImPACT features:
  • Measures player symptoms
  • Measures verbal and visual memory, processing speed, and reaction time
  • Reaction time measured to a 1/100th of second
  • Assists clinicians and athletic trainers in making difficult return-to-play decisions
  • Provides reliable baseline test information
  • Produces a comprehensive report of test results

Parents of campers age 11 - 17, may register via the button below for a FREE ImPACT test. You will be redirected to the RWJ website to register. When completing the form, please indicate the preferred time slot for your appointment in the question section of the form.  You MUST use the special code provided at the camp during registration.

**REGISTRATION NOTE:   You will receive a phone call from one of our staff to complete your registration.

Date:  Sat, Jul 26, 2014

Time:  9am - 10am, 10am - 11am, 11am - 12pm, 12pm - 1pm

Location:  Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset MCC

Contact:  Jennifer Weidemann, Ryan McMahon, Katie Reynolds

Phone:  908-203-5972

[button_purple url="http://www.rwjuh.edu/ssp/events/7679.aspx"]REGISTER HERE[/button_purple] 

Eagles' Malcolm Jenkins raised to be a leader

By Zach Berman, Inquirer Staff Writer Philadelphia Inquirer

 

PISCATAWAY, N.J. - When the Eagles started defensive meetings in April, Earl Wolff sat behind new Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins. Wolff glanced over Jenkins' shoulder at Jenkins' notebook and was astounded at the level of detail.So Wolff started sitting next to Jenkins, and he has shadowed the Eagles' top defensive addition since.It's the same notebook former Ohio State coach Jim Tressel remembers Jenkins carrying around when Jenkins was an all-American for the Buckeyes. The Eagles' dogged pursuit of Jenkins had much to do with the way he plays safety, but it was also because of the intangibles they wanted from the player they expect to lead their secondary.

Those intangibles were fostered in the home of Lee and Gwendolyn Jenkins on Third Street off Rock Avenue in Piscataway. That's where Jenkins' friends congregated, where the van that drove the children home from football practice parked, where Jenkins learned leadership from two parents who emphasized looking after others, and where he put those lessons into action as the oldest of three boys.

Recently acquired free agent safety Eagles Malcolm Jenkins and his parents Lee and Gwendolyn Jenkins look at the high school trophy case where some of Jenkins' team trophies are displayed. ( RON TARVER / Staff Photographer ) May 23 2014

 "I've always been the guy out front," Jenkins said. "It kind of comes natural to me."The Eagles signed Jenkins to a three-year, $16.5 million deal when free agency opened in March. It represented the biggest commitment the team made to a safety since Brian Dawkins departed in 2009.The Eagles targeted Jenkins over two acclaimed free-agent safeties whom Eagles coach Chip Kelly was familiar with from his days at Oregon - Jairus Byrd and T.J. Ward.Other dynamics were involved in the team's evaluation, from cost to playing style to health. But the Eagles never wavered in their admiration of Jenkins.They liked the versatility that allows him to play in the defensive box and in deep coverage. They also wanted someone to quarterback the defensive backfield - Kelly compared Jenkins' role in the secondary to DeMeco Ryans' in the front seven. And Jenkins has a reputation of delivering those intangibles.The son of Lee and Gwendolyn Jenkins has been a captain at every level, from a Piscataway High School team with three NFL first-round picks to an Ohio State squad loaded with future pros to the New Orleans Saints defense. So Jenkins understands he was brought to Philadelphia for more than the way he plays safety."If you were to ask me at 9, 14, 19, did I think I was going to be in the NFL, the answer would probably be no," Jenkins said. "But if you were to ask [my parents], would somebody hire me specifically for my leadership skills and the type person I've become, I think they'd say yes."Malcolm's prediction was correct."At this level, obviously they're all good players," Lee said. "The difference at this level is not physical. It's mental."Jumping up

When Jenkins was a teenager, he took a summer vacation to Columbus, Ohio, where his aunt lived, and his parents looked for a local football camp. They found one at Ohio State, not realizing the magnitude of the camp.Jenkins was a one-star recruit at that point. The only school that had aggressively pursued him was Rutgers, just minutes from his home. Not an invited prospect, he paid to attend the Ohio State camp.During one-on-one drills, Jenkins continued jumping to the front of the line. He covered some of the most decorated receivers in the Midwest, switching places with defensive back prospects ahead of him."He was there on a mission," said Tressel, now the president of Youngstown State.By the end of the camp, Jenkins had a scholarship offer.His Piscataway coaches were not surprised that Jenkins jumped to the front. That's always been Jenkins' personality. It was how he was raised, and how he remains. He did the same thing when he was a high school sophomore."We encouraged that," said Larry Lester, Jenkins' assistant football coach and track coach at Piscataway. "He took the liberty of doing it consistently."Naturally curious, Jenkins learned the responsibilities of the other players on the team. Four players at Piscataway during Jenkins' time at the school would go on to the NFL, and his coaches said the other players would follow him."He totally bought in to the fact that he could influence and impact what other people do," said Dan Higgins, his high school coach. "He was a natural leader because of that. It wasn't because we said Malcolm's the captain. It was because Malcolm was the most highly respected guy on the team."Higgins, whose father, Tom, played for the Eagles in the 1950s, listens to Philadelphia sports-talk radio. He hears what Eagles fans want in safeties. He wants them to know Jenkins has those qualities."To know that he is now sought-after for the intangibles that made him so successful when he was younger is a great compliment," Higgins said. "There's great athletes everywhere. . . . It's the other stuff, that's the rarity." 

Defensive quarterback

In an October game against New England, Jenkins was credited with 11/2 sacks of Patriots quarterback Tom Brady. But the sack he talks about seven months later is one that does not appear on the stat sheet.On a first down in the second quarter, Brady identified a Saints blitz. Jenkins barked instructions of his own. The changes freed the middle linebacker, according to Jenkins, who rushed unimpeded for a sack."That doesn't get quantified," Jenkins said, "but if I don't change that call, we don't get that play."Jenkins will be compared to Byrd, and any Eagles safety must deal with the Dawkins ghosts. He is different from both. Jenkins maintained that his best seasons in New Orleans came when he was given freedom to roam around, playing both in the box and deep in coverage. The Eagles are expected to grant him that freedom.His effect also will be seen through those intangibles and how they improve a defense that allowed the most passing yards in the NFL. He said if he can set up the defensive backfield to simply "eliminate the dumb stuff," that will be a major step.Jenkins said cornerbacks can benefit the most from what he does. If he can ensure they are in the proper position, then they can go off their natural instincts."I bring that cohesiveness in," Jenkins said. "You need that one guy who everyone in the secondary can turn to. Because multiple times in a game, there's going to be miscommunication, and you're going to need one voice to clear that up. . . . I've been that guy for a long time."It's a role that Jenkins has held from the time Lee kept him from quitting his youth team. Jenkins has been at the front of the line ever since, a leader on each team and a winner at each stop. The Eagles signed him to be the same in Philadelphia."In my mind, I don't feel like I need to come in and make a drastic culture change," Jenkins said. "I'm going into a good situation where I'm valued, they want me there, and all I have to do is be me."Originally posted on June 2, 2014 http://articles.philly.com/2014-06-02/sports/50248194_1_malcolm-jenkins-earl-wolff-eagles 

TMJF EXPANDS SPORTS SAFETY COMMITMENT WITH FREE ImPACT TEST

The third annual FREE youth football camp hosted by The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation (TMJF) will offer vouchers to registered campers for free concussion baseline testing through its sponsor, Somerset Medical Center Sports Performance and Rehabilitation Center.  Additionally, the Foundation will expand its youth sports safety initiatives year round through a partnership with SafeKids-NJ, a program founded and sponsored by Johnson & Johnson.   The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation Next Level Youth Football Camp is for boys and girls, ages 7- 17 and will be held on June 20 and June 21, at Piscataway High School, 100 Behmer Road in Piscataway, NJ. The camp consists of two fun, safe and engaging days of learning from prominent NFL players and outstanding high school coaches.  The program is designed to give each participant a solid foundation in football fundamentals on and off the field. Participants are grouped based on age and skill level. Parents and guardians of children ages 7-13 are required to be onsite during the camp program.

 

This year’s camp activities will again include information sessions for all parents and guardians who want to learn more on youth health, wellness and sports safety.  Topics include Nutrition & Hydration, Acute and Overuse Injuries, Concussion Recognition & Recovery, Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Athletes and Anti-Bullying.NFL player participants supporting the camp include, Jenkins (Philadelphia Eagles), Kyle Wilson (New York Jets), Stephen Miller (Detroit Lions), and Dwayne Gratz (Jacksonville Jaguars), who all played on Piscataway High School’s winning football teams; Larry Fitzgerald (Cardinals), Isa Abdul-Quddus (DetroitLions),  Brian Robiskie (Atlanta Falcons), Jahri Evans (New Orleans Saints) and Leigh Torrence (free agent).“We are proud to once again offer a great camp experience to our youth who, along with knowledge about sports performance, will also learn how self-discipline, character and academics are key to life performance." ~ Malcolm Jenkins, TMJF Founder and Chairman. 

Malcolm Jenkins Foundation Awards College Scholarships to Urban League College Track Seniors

While both his new and former teams were investing in their futures on the first night of the 2014 NFL draft, Philadelphia Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins was infusing money into something else: the college educations of 10 high school seniors from the New Orleans area.The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation  donated $2,500 to each of the students — $25,000 total — during an event Thursday at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome’s Club 44.The scholarships were part of the Foundation's Project R.E.W.A.R.D.S (Reinforcing Education With Activities, Recreation and Developmental Supports) program, which supplements the Urban League of Greater New Orleans’ College Track Program. The program emphasizes providing mentorship, personal development, leadership, education, life skills, health and recreation to youth in underserved communities.The naming of the 2014 Malcolm Jenkins Scholars, marks the third year that The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation has helped deserving youth pursue their higher educational aspirations at an accredited college or university of their choice. Scholarships were awarded in the categories of : Most Improved, High Academic Achievement and Overcoming Adversity.  Through Malcolm’s own commitment, coupled with that of the many individuals and entities who have supported the efforts of the Foundation, more than $100,000.00 have been awarded in scholarships, program support and support to families.“Our youth today should have every opportunity available to them to excel and achieve”, says Jenkins. “We are delighted to be a part of the bridge that every youth should have available to them to cross over and meet opportunity,” he added in a videotaped address to the students. While Malcolm is now a member of the Philadelphia Eagles and living in that area, he wanted to demonstrate  his ongoing commitment to New Orleans youth by being there via technology.  “I am extremely proud of the students who have completed our joint program and I am particularly proud for our graduating seniors who are the 2014 Malcolm Jenkins scholarship winners,” says Jenkins.  TMJF Board Officer, Loyce Pierce Wright, presented the scholarships.

2014 Malcolm Jenkins Scholars

Malik L. Brooks                                                  Alan A. LlanasMerlin T. George                                                Ta'Juan A. LawsonTia L. Harris                                                        Miracle C. RossKaila N. Holloway                                               Tina M. WebsterLucia V. Hughes                                                  Anastasia V. Woods

Malcolm Jenkins Nominated for All Sports United 2014 Humanitarian Award

What is the All Stars of Giving Challenge?

Join your fellow fans in selecting the ten All Stars of Giving. One of those All Stars will then be crowned the Humanitarian of the Year by All Sports United and receive in-kind services and a cash reward for his/her favorite cause. Donations, from individuals and corporate sponsors, will also increase the amount of cash rewards.

Your votes decides the final 10 All Stars. You may vote up to 3 times per day. Voting ends May 15, 2014.

A selection committee determined by All Sports United will identify and announce the winner of their Humanitarian of the Year Award on June 23, 2014 in Chicago.

Donations can increase the rewards to great causes.

Each of the causes championed by the top-10 All Stars will receive an unrestricted grant based on the number of votes their All Star receives in the final round of voting. All donations will go to the Givkwik Fund managed by a 501(c)3 nonprofit financial services firm and may be tax deductible (consult your tax professional).

Big Prizes For A Great Cause! Total value $100,000+

The favorite cause of the Humanitarian of the Year will receive a generous bundle of services and resources procured by All Sports United from the campaign sponsors.

[button_purple url="https://givkwik.com/campaigns/2014-asu/MalcolmJenkins"]VOTE HERE FOR MALCOLM![/button_purple]

PRO ATHLETE MALCOLM JENKINS TO KICK – OFF FIRST STATEWIDE YOUTH SPORTS SAFETY SYMPOSIUM HOSTED BY ROBERT WOOD JOHNSON

 New Jersey’s first statewide sports safety symposium for youth, adults and sports and health care professionals - hosted by Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in partnership with Safe Kids New Jersey/Founding Sponsor Johnson & Johnson and The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation - will be held at the Rutgers University Louis Brown Athletic Center (RAC) in Piscataway, NJ on Sunday, May 4, 2014.

“Are You Sports Smart?” is a FREE event where attendees will learn how to prevent acute/overuse sports injuries; hear about “return to life” following a concussion and how to “win the mind game” of competition. The event consists of two Sessions.  Parents/guardians, coaches, athletic trainers and health care professionals, are invited to attend Session I which begins at 9 a.m.Doors open to the general public at 11:30 a.m. for Session II which features interactive stations for youth athletes and parents/guardians on concussion, hydration and heat illness; acute and overuse injuries; and proper equipment.“The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation is proud to be among the partners that developed this very important event to address today’s youth sports safety hot topics,” said Malcolm Jenkins Chairman of the Foundation and defensive back for the NFL Philadelphia Eagles.”  Jenkins added that “our Foundation is committed to building awareness among parents, guardians and youth to learn that generally injuries are preventable and that unintentional injuries can oftentimes be preventable as well.”Jenkins will kick-off the public session (Session II) at 12 noon, meet youth participants and give them a special keepsake.  Former Rutgers Football player and author Eric LeGrand, will provide a special keynote address.

Winn-Dixie, Saints player, fans and New Orleans celebs compete in “Supermarket Sweep” for charity

New Orleans Winn-Dixie store No. 1405 and New Orleans Saints defensive team captain Malcolm Jenkins brought the holiday spirit of giving into the homes of 135 local families in a highly-visible “Supermarket Sweep” event Dec. 17.The “sweep,” in which popular New Orleans area TV and radio personalities and Saints “super fans” decked out in festive Saints gear teamed up and squared off to shop for the most food to donate to the needy, put a fun and local twist on charitable giving.Five competing teams were given a list of Winn-Dixie items available throughout the store. They raced up and down the aisles gathering holiday items such as turkeys, canned goods, desserts and much more, as the Saints cheerleaders, customers and spectators cheered them on and helped them out along the way. New Orleans Saints PA announcer Mark Romig called the play-by-play, while Saints super fan Larry “The Sign Guy” rooted for “Team Winn-Dixie.”Once the shopping spree was done, participants raced to the checkout to confirm their lists. The first team to finish the sweep didn’t have gravy and was disqualified. That allowed Jenkins’ team, which included local TV personalities from WGNO-ABC, to be crowned winners of the Supermarket Sweep, receiving a Winn-Dixie catered, Saints-themed tailgate lunch, and bragging rights.“This was such a fun and interactive way for us to give back to our community,” said store No. 1405 director Larry Kearns. “We were also happy to showcase our newly-remodeled store to an audience of key community members and media personalities.”After the race ended, Winn-Dixie presented The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation with a check, which paid for most of the food to be given to the 135 families. Jenkins and Kearns personally delivered boxes of the holiday food items to three local families. The remaining boxes were transported to Winn-Dixie store No. 1329 for distribution.“Having a shared vision and a common goal makes big things happen,” Jenkins said. “Our gratitude and appreciation goes out to our partners at Winn-Dixie for their commitment to fighting hunger in the Greater New Orleans community.”

THE MALCOLM JENKINS FOUNDATION & WINN-DIXIE TEAM UP TO HOST A SUPERMARKET SWEEP TO FEED LOCAL FAMILIES

The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation will host the 3^rd annual Big Easy Holiday Surprise Dinner on Tuesday, December 17, 2013.  Jenkins, New Orleans Saints Safety and Defensive Team Captain, who wears #27 on the field, and his foundation, coordinated with 27 local churches and organizations to identify 135 families to receive the special holiday gift of food items, to prepare a traditional holiday meal to brighten their holiday.  Winn-Dixie is donating funds for the foundation to purchase food items for the families.Along with The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation board members, area volunteers and Winn-Dixie associates will help package and distribute the holiday boxes.  Each box will include everything needed to prepare a traditional holiday meal, including a turkey, vegetables, rolls, fresh fruits, dessert and much more. Among the volunteers assisting The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation with packaging and distributing holiday dinner boxes are students from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Charter High School mentoring program, Mu Lambda Kappa.This year, to help gather items needed for the holiday dinner boxes, The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation and Winn-Dixie will host a Supermarket Sweep with Jenkins and some of his teammates (Roman Harper, Cameron Jordan, Isa Abdul-Quddus, Kevin Reddick) paired with area media personalities.  The sweep will occur at Winn-Dixie in Gretna.   Following the sweep, Malcolm Jenkins and Winn Dixie store director, Larry Kearns, will surprise five families by personally delivering the holiday gift boxes. WHEN:           Tuesday, December 17, 2013WHERE:         Winn-Dixie -  2112 Belle Chase Hwy., Gretna, LA 

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. - Supermarket Sweep / Holiday Dinner items will be packaged and loaded for distribution

 Winn-Dixie Metairie -211 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, LA 

1:30 – 3 p.m. - Distribution of holiday dinner boxes to participating organizations

For more information call: The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation: 504-599-5914 or Winn-Dixie: 504-914-6004.

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Celebrities celebrate Hope for the Holidays honoring Saints players

On Friday, Dec.13, New Orleans Saints players Roman Harper, Lance Moore, Pierre Thomas, Jahri Evans, and Malcolm Jenkins are being honored at IrvingMorris and United Way of Southeast Louisiana’s 3rd Annual Hope for the Holidays Gala presented by Cox Oil at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans.To date, there are still hundreds of families in the greater New Orleans area that remain displaced from Katrina in 2005 – many doubled or tripled up in family homes, or living in gutted or partially complete homes or apartments they cannot afford.This along with Hurricane Isaac in 2012 has left hundreds of families with no hope this holiday season.So, for the fourth year in a row, Saints players have teamed up with IrvingMorris and United Way of Southeast Louisiana to support the Hope for the Holidays campaign.Saints players who have participated in this campaign include Roman Harper, Lance Moore Malcolm Jenkins, Jahri Evans, Pierre Thomas, Darren Sproles, and Mark Ingram; also former Saints Jermon Bushrod and Courtney Roby and retired Saint Darren Sharper have all joined the efforts of their fellow Saints teammates.The Gala dinner will be emceed by TV personality and former NBA champion, John Salley; and film and TV actress from One Tree Hill and star of FOX television’s highly anticipated new drama, Gang Related, Shantel VanSanten.The evening will include talented Louisiana recording artist, MacKenzie Bourg, from NBC’s Emmy Awarding Winning show “The Voice.”Grammy nominated recording artist, film and television actress, host, and entrepreneur Christina Milian will also be present to speak and show her support for the cause.Over the past 4 years the Hope for the Holidays campaign has been responsible for rebuilding the homes of over 20 families.The Gala, which honors all of the Saints players listed, is an opportunity to generate even more funds for additional rebuilds.New Orleans Saint player, Roman Harper explains, “It is such an honor to be a part of Hope for the Holidays and to be in a position where I can give back to others in such an impactful way, especially to a community that is so meaningful, and to families that are so deserving.”CEO of United Way of Southeast Louisiana adds, “Hope for the Holidays is an example of how players and former players give back off the field. These men have made a tremendous difference in the lives of the people they have helped and the neighborhoods they have helped revitalize. To me, this is what the holidays are all about—hope for the future”.For additional information regarding the Gala or making a donation go to the United Way website at www.unitedwaysela.org/hope

Winn-Dixie joins forces with The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation to help area students

Winn-Dixie stores in New Orleans’ District No. 5 are teaming up with Saints player Malcolm Jenkins to help inner-city youth and to address community needs.Store No. 1472 kicked off the partnership with The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation (TMJF) by teaching local high school students about healthy living and budgeting their money.Winn-Dixie and TMJF are working together to support the inner-city community, an area where education and health are critical issues.“We are so excited to partner with Winn-Dixie for this program,” said Gwendolyn V. Jenkins, president of TMJF. “Through our partnership with Winn-Dixie, we will continue to make health a priority for youth in New Orleans.”TMJF was founded in 2010 by New Orleans Saints Free Safety Malcolm Jenkins and offers character-building programs for underserved youth. The programs are designed to enhance leadership abilities, education and life skills while emphasizing health and wellness.Winn-Dixie is hosting a series of sessions that include hands-on nutrition tours and interactive exercises geared towards educating students on how to shop for healthier foods, prepare more nutritious meals and master valuable life skills. Sessions began on Nov. 1, and students learned about the benefits of juicing in a demonstration hosted by local health enthusiast Stephanie Osborne. On Nov. 8, nearly 30 high school students learned about budgeting, healthy eating and smart shopping.“This is a great partnership opportunity for Winn-Dixie,” said Karena Niblett, New Orleans Region Vice President. “We are hoping to make a positive impact on the community by working with TMJF to help students in New Orleans make healthier choices.”

OMAZE PARTNERS WITH NFL STAR MALCOLM JENKINS’ FOUNDATION TO OFFER DREAM EXPERIENCE

Omaze.com (Omaze), the online platform that offers anyone the opportunity to enter to win once-in-a-lifetime experiences with celebrities, athletes, and the world’s greatest thinkers, all to benefit social causes, has partnered with NFL New Orleans Saints star Malcolm Jenkins and his charity, The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation to offer a dream football experience to one winner for donations that begin at just $10. The Omaze experience will fly one winner and his or her guest of choice to New Orleans to hang out with the Superbowl Champion. The winner will join Jenkins on the Superdome turf before taking prime seats to watch the New Orleans Saints and the Dallas Cowboys go head to head. The winner will also receive a Saints helmet and NFL football autographed by Jenkins, plus $200 in gift cards to Jenkins’ favorite restaurants.The Omaze process works similar to a charity raffle. The user-friendly site allows anyone to enter to win an Omaze experience of their choice by donating just $5-10. Once the deadline to enter for the experience passes, Omaze collects all the entries and selects the winners through a third party computer-generated random selection process. The proceeds are delivered to benefit a specific social cause, in this case, The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation.Jenkins, an American football Free Safety, Defensive Team Captain, and Super Bowl Champion, has long been committed to helping youth and teens develop leadership and service skills through mentorship and public service. His foundation is committed to youth development initiatives and programs that emphasize mentorship, character development, leadership, education, life skills, health, and recreation. It is Jenkins’ hope that through the foundation, a positive difference will be made in the lives of youth, future generations, and the communities in which they serve.Omaze will accept donations to enter to win this experience from October 19, 2013- November 6, 2013.For more information about how to enter to win this experience with Omaze and The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation, please visit www.omaze.com/saints. 

Local pro football players give back at camp for kids in Piscataway

In a hallway next to a lecture hall at Piscataway High School Saturday morning, a seven-year-old football player had New Orleans Saints’ free safety Malcolm Jenkins’ sole attention. He had some questions he wasn’t able to sneak in during a question and answer session Jenkins had given in the hall to a big group of campers, participants in the second annual Malcolm Jenkins Foundation camp.Jenkins, a 2005 Piscataway High School graduate, couldn’t have been more patient, and was very thoughtful in giving the right numbers — how many touchdowns, how many interceptions, he has collected in his years in his four years in the NFL.“Thank you Malcolm,’’ the youngster said on receiving the stats.“Not a problem,’’ Jenkins replied.Pro Players Giving Back 

Football was at the core of the two-day camp at Piscataway High School, which was made up of 350 players from ages 7 to 18. There was a range of drills on the turf at Ciardi Field where Jenkins and high school teammate and now Jets defensive back Kyle Wilson played, where Piscataway grad and recent Detroit Lions’ signee Steven Miller played. Where Tampa Bay linebacker Jonathan Casillas, as a member of the New Brunswick High School Zebras, played two game scrimmages.Football was at the core of the two-day camp at Piscataway High School, which was made up of 350 players from ages 7 to 18. There was a range of drills on the turf at Ciardi Field where Jenkins and high school teammate and now Jets defensive back Kyle Wilson played, where Piscataway grad and recent Detroit Lions’ signee Steven Miller played. Where Tampa Bay linebacker Jonathan Casillas, as a member of the New Brunswick High School Zebras, played two game scrimmages.

Miller is a player the kids really could appreciate. No four-year school was interested in him when he came out of Piscataway, but he went to Nassau Community College for two years and on to Appalachian State where he ran for 1,368 yards on 239 carries (5.7 yards per carry) and 11 touchdowns last season. He caught 34 passes for 377 yards and four scores.He returns to the Lions’ on July 22 with camp starting three days later in hopes of landing a spot as a starting kickoff and punt returner.The kids learned that Jenkins and Miller were neighbors in an area of Piscataway that also included offensive tackle Anthony Davis (Rutgers) of the San Francisco 49ers and defensive back Dwayne Gratz (Connecticut), picked by Jacksonville in the third round of this year’s NFL Draft. Gratz lived directly across West Third Street from the Jenkins, while Miller lived nearby on Chestnut Street.All of them graduated from Piscataway.“I wanted to come back and support the youth and show them that there’s hope, no dream is too big for any kid, including myself,’’ said Miller, a free agent, who visited the Lions before the draft. “My road to success wasn’t easy, I had to go to junior college, so we’re trying to inspire the kids to keep doing things, to stay active.’’He was among the football royalty that made up the staff, but campers also benefited from the attention of Malcolm’s parents Lee and Gwen, the president of the non-profit foundation.Most of the Piscataway High staff was present including head coach Dan Higgins, who signaled the end of one drill to another with a air horn, Former Piscataway top assistant Larry Lester Sr, was on hand as were many former Chiefs’ players.“What we are trying to do is obviously give these kids an experience that they wouldn’t usually have, it’s free, so anybody can come,’’ said Jenkins, whose wife Morrisa is expecting with the couple’s first child in December. “We brought out my colleagues in the NFL, some of my friends I played college ball with high school ball, high school coaches, who come out and donate their time, Nobody’s getting paid for it, we have a lot of support from the community.’’

MALCOLM JENKINS FOUNDATION FORMS TEAM WITH NFL PLAYERS AND AWARD-WINNING HIGH SCHOOL COACHES FOR ANNUAL FOOTBALL CAMP

 Health and wellness & safety experts join program to raise adult awareness of youth health topics

 

PISCATAWAY, NEW JERSEY – June 17, 2013 – Players from five NFC teams will descend into the state of New Jersey to provide 350 boys and girls the experience of a lifetime at the second annual Malcolm Jenkins Foundation Next Level Youth Football Camp that will be held at Piscataway High School on June 21 and 22 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.The free of charge camp provides a unique opportunity to bring youth age 7-17 together for two fun, safe and engaging days of learning from prominent NFL players and outstanding high school coaches. The program is designed to give each participant a solid foundation in football fundamentals on and off the field. Participants are grouped based on age. “I am proud to be returning to my hometown and home state to give back and return the favor and support that I received from every aspect of my community during my formative years as a student athlete,” said Malcolm Jenkins, Founder and Chairman of the Malcolm Jenkins Foundation and Safety with the NFL Super Bowl XLIV Champions New Orleans Saints. I’m especially honored that my friends and colleagues in the league are joining the Foundation and me to provide the campers with an experience they will always remember,” said Jenkins.At this year’s camp, Malcolm will be joined by players who participated last year and several new players who have come on board for this round. Confirmed players include Larry Fitzgerald (Cardinals), Roman Harper (Saints), Isa Abdul-Quddus (Saints); Curtis Lofton (Saints); Leigh Torrence (Free Agent); Kurt Coleman (Eagles); Anderson Russell (Panthers); and Steven Miller (Lions).This year’s camp activities have been expanded to include information sessions to all parents and guardians who want to learn more on youth health, wellness and sports safety. Topics will cover: Nutrition & Hydration; Concussion Recognition & Recovery; Sudden Cardiac Arrest; Common Injuries in Athletes; the Importance of Sleep in Athletes and Anti-Bullying. The sessions will raise awareness and provide information on injury prevention and care, and also highlight the importance of safe play, exercise and healthy activities.“We are proud to once again offer a great camp experience to our state’s youth who, along with knowledge about sports performance, will also learn how self-discipline, character, academics and healthy lifestyles and attitudes are key to life performance,” said Gwendolyn V. Jenkins, Foundation President. “We look forward to all parents and guardians participating in our information sessions,” Jenkins said, adding that “building awareness around health and safety topics in adults and youth can encourage conversation between them that can make a big difference in the youth’s wellness.”Camp sponsors and supporters include: Somerset Medical Center Sports Performance & Rehabilitation Center; CAA Sports; AT&T; Muscle Maker Grill of South Plainfield, NJ; Piscataway Township Schools; Rutgers University; East West Connection; Pat Rego Creations; State Farm Insurance; Walmart, Piscataway Police PBA 93; Cablevision; Kegler Brown Hill and Ritter; Pepsi Bottling Company and Popchips. 

Celebrity Golf Classic to benefit Wounded Warrior Project

On April 5, famous athletes will play in a celebrity golf tournament at Burnt Pine Golf Club at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Through the Affordable Home Insurance Charities Foundation, this event will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project.

The inaugural Celebrity Golf Classic will be held at the award-winning Burnt Pine Golf Club at Sandestin, April 5. The event will begin with a lunch at 12:30 p.m. and will be followed by a golf tournament, silent auction, live music and cash bar. Celebrity guests scheduled to golf in the tournament include Malcolm Jenkins, Joe Horn, A.J. Duhe, Josh Harris, Calvin Peete, Rickey Jackson, Ben Tate, Zeke Bratkowski, and John Offerdahl.

"We are absolutely thrilled to host this event," said Jared Morton, director of the Burnt Pine Golf Club. "Through Affordable Home Insurance Charities Foundation, this tournament is able to make a significant contribution to the Wounded Warriors Project and Eagle Fund."

All teams for the Friday tournament will be comprised of a four-person group, and play will consist of a scramble format with team prizes awarded to the top finishers. Registrations are being accepted as a foursome and a celebrity golfer will be paired with groups to make up the team. Registration fees are $250 per player or $1,000 per team. For those who do not wish to golf, tickets to the reception and silent auction only are available for $25 per person.

Special items will be auctioned off Friday evening starting at 7 p.m. at the Burnt Pine Club House. The auction includes several memorabilia items, such as, a signed high school jersey by LeBron James, signed Pro Bowl jersey by Emmitt Smith, John Elway Broncos jersey signed, other signed memorabilia, rounds of golf, gift cards and an iPad 2.

All proceeds will go toward supporting Wounded Warriors and the Eagle Fund. For further details about the event and participant information, visit www.AHICF.info or call 654-1567.

Panama City NEWS HERALD http://www.newsherald.com/sports/celebrity-golf-classic-to-benefit-wounded-warrior-project-1.118817?ot=hmg.PrintPageLayout.ot

PFPMA CELEBRATES READ ACROSS AMERICA

PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL PLAYERS MOTHERS ASSOCIATION

NE/MID-ATLANTIC REGION

Grab Your Hat and Read with the Cat!

[gallery ids="2233,2231,2227,2223,2225,2226,2229,2228,2230"]WHO:  Michelle Green (Bryant McKinnie-Baltimore Ravens),Linda Harrison (Marvin Harrison-Ind. Colts (r)), Joy Freeney (Dwight Freeney-Ind. Colts), Zelda Westbrook (Brian Westbrook-Philadelphia Eagles (r) & Byron Westbrook-Washington Redskins (Free Agent)), Donna George (Eddie George-Tennessee Titans (r)), Larry & Chris Johnson (Larry Johnson-Kansas City Chiefs (r)), Bertina Duncan (Jamie Duncan-Tampa Buccaneers (r)), Debbie Hall (Brent Grimes-Atlanta Falcons),Gwendolyn V. Jenkins (Malcolm Jenkins-New Orleans Saints), Bryant McKinnie Baltimore Ravens (Super bowl XLVII Champs) &"B" Major Foundation team membersWHERE: The Pennsylvania Avenue School, 201 Pennsylvania Ave., Atlantic City, NJandDr. Martin Luther King School, 1700 Marmora Avenue, Atlantic City, NJWHEN:  Friday, March 1, 2013Dr. Seuss epitomizes a love of children and learning. His use of rhyme makes his books an effective tool for teaching young children the basic skills they need to be successful. When we celebrate Dr. Seuss and reading, we send a clear message to America's children that reading is fun and important. Our goal is to show children the joy of reading and build a community of readers across the country.

To learn more about PFPMA go to http://www.pfpma.org.

TMJF HOST ANNUAL YOUTH FOOTBALL CAMP IN NEW JERSEY

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?

SAVE THE DATE 

THE MALCOLM JENKINS FOUNDATION ANNUAL YOUTH FOOTBALL CAMPJUNE 21-22, 20139:00am - 3:00pmPiscataway High School100 Behmer Road, Piscataway Township, New Jersey

 Details and registration coming soon!