The Atlanta Falcons suffered defeat in the Super Bowl but that shouldn’t make anyone forget what an incredibly successful season they had in 2016-2017. They made their second appearance in a Super Bowl, finished with double-digit wins for the fourth time in seven years, and had one of the most prolific offenses in league history.
Just the same, the Atlanta Falcons also happened to be very successful off the field, most specifically through the franchise’s charitable and philanthropic efforts. The Falcons’ have created and run several community programs to benefit the greater Atlanta area, in several different areas.
Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan was given the NFL’s Most Valuable Player award this past season, thanks to his career-best efforts on the field. But Ryan was also able to bring success to another group of fans that needed it most: namely, the children being served by Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. As part of the #MyCauseMyCleats social campaign, Ryan was one of numerous NFL players who donned personalized cleats in support of their charity of choice. Ryan pledged on his Instagram account: “I’m committed to making all kids better today and healthier tomorrow.”
The franchise’s Youth Foundation, affiliated with Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation (founded by team owner Arthur Blank), also devotes efforts towards improving the lives of children, by way of developing innovative ways for kids to spend more time performing physical activities, and having access to healthy fresh fruits and vegetables. The foundation has helped award more than $20 million in grants to children across the state of Georgia.
The team also has a specific page on its website dedicated to their efforts, and the efforts of others in the community. Their “Rise Up Atlanta” initiative, playing on their slogan used throughout their successful 2016-2017, focuses on those who are about helping out, creating smiles, and improving the lives and welfare of those around the greater Atlanta community.