They are saying that the Christmas season is a time of giving—and Atlanta Falcons linebacker Matthew Judon is supporting this mission.
On Tuesday, Dec. 3, Judon hosted the “Skate for a Trigger” occasion at The Roof at Ponce Metropolis Market in Atlanta, Ga. The night invited residents to deliver a coat to donate to Atlanta Mission, a company devoted to aiding homeless youth and households within the space. As a gesture of gratitude, Judon lined skating tickets for as much as 50 attendees who participated within the coat drive.
For Judon, the occasion is deeply private. Rising up in Michigan, he typically relied on the generosity of others throughout difficult occasions. “I bear in mind individuals who had greater than me simply giving a serving to hand,” Judon shared. This reminiscence impressed his dedication to giving again and supporting communities in want, significantly in the course of the vacation season.
Fifteen % of all foods and drinks proceeds had been donated to Atlanta Mission. Attendees had been additionally shocked by an look from Freddie the Falcon, including to the festive ambiance.
Reflecting on his childhood, Judon reminisced about rising up in Michigan’s chilly winters, the place he typically performed hockey on frozen ponds with mates. “It simply introduced me again to my outdated days,” he mentioned, describing the enjoyment of skating and the sense of group it fosters. He hopes occasions like this encourage individuals to unite, assist each other, and do not forget that searching for or providing assistance is a shared human expertise.
Based on Phil Barks, Director of Volunteer Companies for the group, the partnership got here collectively when Judon and his staff reached out to collaborate. “Matthew’s coronary heart to offer again is inspiring,” Barks mentioned. “With over 800 males, girls, and youngsters throughout our 4 campuses, this occasion makes a tangible distinction,” mentioned Barks. The coat donations are particularly important in the course of the winter months and helps people dealing with homelessness navigate the chilly climate with dignity and care, Marks mentioned.
Judon’s partnership with Atlanta Mission is a few broader imaginative and prescient of group unity, a worth the group holds pricey. “Our imaginative and prescient is a group united to finish homelessness, one individual at a time,” Barks defined. “This occasion is a superb instance of that, with the Falcons stepping as much as make an area influence.”
Judon additionally expressed hope for what attendees would take away from the night. “As a group, we’re all simply individuals,” he mentioned. “You’re by no means too good to assist, and also you’re by no means too unhealthy to ask for assist.”
For these impressed by Judon’s efforts, Atlanta Mission continues to welcome donations and assist. Go to atlantamission.org
