Something Positive For Raider Nation

(Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

The news is out about Oakland Raiders Linebacker Thomas Howard's speed and aggressiveness on the field. What many fans don't know about is his heart and willingness to give back to the youth of Oakland. He has started the Thomas Howard foundation to benefit youth ages 9-18 that want to succeed in both organized athletic and educational activities.

The foundation gives an annual scholarship for an athlete walking on to a college athletic program, It will provide uniforms and equipment to different youth football teams in the Oakland area every year, and sponsor an "Are You Smarter than a Fourth Grader" competition featuring various Raiders pitted against Oakland fourth grader. 

Thomas Howard was a walk on athlete for UTEP once himself, and quickly became a leader on and off the field. He also returns to the El Paso, Tx area every year during the the off-season. As well as another former UTEP stand out and current Oakland Raider Johnny Lee Higgins. Together they run various youth football camps,autograph signings, mentor young athletes, and help local charities.

With news headlines focusing on negative behavior by a few NFL players its nice to know the majority are still doing their part to make a difference in their communities.

"As a walk on athlete out of UTEP, I am extremely proud to be able to begin the Thomas Howard Foundation to help those who have a similar experience," Howard said. "There has been great effort so far designing the programs and activities that will benefit Bay Area schools as well as the scholarship programs we look forward to offering. We are happy to pull it all together, and we hope to make a difference."

Keep up the good fight and learn more at www.thowardfoundation.org.

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