The Jefferson Awards Foundation, America’s most prestigious and longest standing organization dedicated to activating and celebrating public service, honored America’s most outstanding philanthropic achievements in 2015 at its annual gala in New York City. The gala took place at Gotham Hall honoring the recipients for their dedication and accomplishments to helping those less fortunate.
“Every year the Jefferson Awards Foundation honors the top social entrepreneurs and philanthropists in the nation with this gala,” said Hillary Schafer, Executive Director of The Jefferson Awards. “It is an honor to have so many individuals from all walks of life dedicated to public service attend our event to be recognized for their continued achievements.”
Buffalo Bills running back Fred Jackson was in attendance to receive the Jefferson Award for Greatest Public Service by an Athlete. Jackson spends much of his time participating in community service, and is an advocate for the Food Bank of WNY. The NFL running back is also a spokesman for the United Way, the Billieve campaign for breast-cancer awareness and NFL Play 60 for youth exercise. Jackson will join the ranks of Yankee’s Mariano Rivera and the Eagle’s James Thrash who received this award in 2014.
In addition to the Fred Jackson and the other national winners, the three 2015 LEAD360 finalists were announced as they begin their 9 month journey to compete against each other to create maximum impact on a national with their submitted service project ideas. Of particular relevance to all athletes and student athletes is the Health & Wellness winner 19-year-old Wesley Boone. His BIG IDEA is to collect new and used athletic equipment for children who have none. To help Wes or to learn more about all 3 LEAD360 projects, visit LEAD360 today.