SAN FRANCISCO’S ARIK ARMSTEAD NAMED WEEK 10 NFLPA COMMUNITY MVP
From Sacramento to Qatar, Arik Armstead has virtually connected with students in 21 classrooms across 15 school districts to lift their spirits during the pandemic and promote literacy to those who may not have access to books.
SAN FRANCISCO’S ARIK ARMSTEAD NAMED WEEK 10 NFLPA COMMUNITY MVP
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Arik Armstead has been named Week 10 NFLPA Community MVP after hosting his latest “Storytime With Arik Armstead,” where he read to students in his hometown of Elk Grove, California. Since launching in May, the virtual program has impacted more than 440 kids internationally.
"Being named the NFLPA’s Week 10 Community MVP is an honor,” said Armstead, who has been a consistent advocate for social justice. “As we all know, this year has been tough on so many, making our mission to give back to the community through the Armstead Academic Project even stronger. My hope is to be as impactful as I can by blessing others through the many blessings I have received in my life."
In May, Armstead and his mother, Christa, went live in Instagram for a special Mother’s Day reading geared toward students whose classrooms have shifted to virtual learning due to COVID-19. They spent the time reminiscing about books from Arik’s childhood and read “Guess How Much I Love You.” The experience inspired the San Francisco 49er to create “Storytime with Arik Armstead” as a way to connect with kids during a time of uncertainty while promoting literacy among those who might not have access to books. As of this month, Armstead has virtually engaged with 21 classes of students in first through fourth grade, impacting 15 different school districts from Sacramento to Qatar with stories focused on Black history, equality, courage and Earth Day.
The sixth-year veteran is passionate about working with youth, especially in his home state of California. Founded in 2019, the Armstead Academic Project (AAP) ensures public school students have access to a quality education while providing them with the resources they need to thrive and be successful, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. So far, the foundation has poured $200,000 back into his community, hosted more than 1,000 underserved youth at four free football camps, and raised $50,000 in funds to provide 350 Chromebooks, resources and one year of pre-paid Internet to students for distance learning at Sacramento’s Mercy Housing.
The defensive lineman has spent much of his NFL career giving back and after signing a five-year contract extension this past offseason, he made a commitment to contribute even more to his community. Armstead has hosted an annual 91Six charity weekend, featuring a youth football camp and fundraising gala that’s brought in more than $100,000 to help fund education initiatives; welcomed more than 200 kids to attend eight creative writing workshops; held an annual toy giveaway where he purchases gifts for the kids at UC Davis Children’s Hospital; and helped support small businesses, front-line workers and youth as they navigate the pandemic.
In honor of Armstead being named this week’s Community MVP, the NFLPA will make a $10,000 contribution to the Armstead Academic Project. Also, our supporting partner Pledge It has set up a crowdfunding campaign. Supporters can make a flat donation at the following website:
Make a Pledge
Armstead, along with the other 2020 Community MVPs, will become eligible for this year’s Alan Page Community Award, which is the highest honor that the NFLPA can bestow upon a player.
The NFLPA Community MVP program recognizes NFL players who are making a positive impact in their hometowns and team cities. Each week during the regular season, the NFLPA will celebrate one player who has demonstrated a commitment to giving back to his community. Please visit our website to learn more about the program.
2020 NFLPA Community MVP winners:
Week 0: Kevin Byard, Tennessee Titans
Week 1: Cam Heyward, Pittsburgh Steelers
Week 2: Rodney McLeod, Philadelphia Eagles
Week 3: Landon Collins, Washington Football Team
Week 4: Oren Burks, Green Bay Packers
Week 5: Harrison Phillips, Buffalo Bills
Week 6: Derrick Brown, Carolina Panthers
Week 7: Shawn Williams, Cincinnati Bengals
Week 8: Corey Clement, Philadelphia Eagles
Week 9: Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs
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The National Football League Players Association is the union for professional football players in the National Football League. Established in 1956, the NFLPA has a long history of assuring proper recognition and representation of players’ interests. The NFLPA has shown that it will do whatever is necessary to assure that the rights of players are protected—including ceasing to be a union, if necessary, as it did in 1989. In 1993, the NFLPA again was officially recognized as the union representing the players, and negotiated a landmark Collective Bargaining Agreement with the NFL. The current CBA will govern the sport through the 2030 season. Learn more at www.nflpa.com.