NASHVILLE – Titans safety Kevin Byard has been selected as the official spokesperson for the United Way of Greater Nashville.
Byard plans to use the platform to influence others while making an impact in the community, starting with the virtual 2020 Stuff the Bus school supply drive.
"I'm honored and excited to team up with United Way of Greater Nashville," Byard said in a statement. "We both share a passion for impacting those in need in our community and striving to give everyone the resources needed to be successful. I'm looking forward to building our community and launching our work together with Stuff the Bus."
Byard, who played collegiately at MTSU, has made a great effort over the years to give back to the community.
Last May, Byard hosted 200-plus youngsters at the inaugural Kevin Byard Football Camp at Ensworth School. At the time, he said he planned to hold the camp - which was free - every year.
In September, Byard partnered with UnitedHealthcare to distribute new shoes and socks to over 300 students at Robert Churchwell Elementary School in Nashville. Byard tossed the football with kids, and spoke to them about the importance of making good grades.
In 2019, Byard also teamed up with Academy Sports to provide new shoes and coats for the children of The Boys and Girls club in Smyrna, Tenn.
Byard joined Titans teammates, coaches, and other members of the organization for tornado clean-up efforts in Nashville in March.
Byard began The Byard Family Legacy Fund in 2019 because he wanted to make a difference in the lives of his neighbors. Byard has said the purpose of his foundation is to provide the community with hope.
"We're incredibly lucky to have Kevin on our side," said Brian Hassett, United Way of Greater Nashville's president and CEO. "United Way has partnered with the Tennessee Titans for more than 20 years. Our partnership is so strong because of our shared interest in increasing public awareness about the issues facing our community, and how we can work together to better serve our neighbors."
Here's how individuals, groups and workplaces can contribute now through July 10:
-- Run a drive. Visit roonga.com/uwgnstuffthebus2020 to set up a team for a workplace or group. Create a team profile, set a goal for your supply drive and share a personalized team link with colleagues and friends to start collecting.
-- Support students by purchasing supply kits or individual items directly from an online store. The items will be delivered to local elementary school students in need.
--Individuals can make a credit card donation in any amount which will be used to buy more supplies.
To learn more about Stuff the Bus, visit unitedwaygreaternashville.org/stuffthebus.
To learn more about The Byard Family Legacy Fund, visit byardfamilylegacy.org.
