A great football club is more than a collection of superb
athletes – it is a partner with its community and is involved in
solving problems, creating opportunities, and enriching the quality
of life for youth and families through unique resources, teamwork
and goodwill.
The Jaguars Community Relations department reflects those goals by
working as an extension of the team to develop and implement
resourceful and valuable programs that contribute directly to the
Jacksonville-area community. As a highly visible organization
the Jaguars, including players, coaches and front office staff,
acknowledge and accept their unique role and work to improve the
welfare of people throughout their region.
Since the team’s inception in 1993, one of our platforms as a team
has been focused on ways we can positively impact our society.
Serving as a catalyst for constructive community change, the
development of programs promoting literacy and education, health and
wellness, physical fitness, and outreach programs with non-profit
and community groups, we aspire to extend a helping hand no matter
how big or small the task may be. We are proud to have so many
supporters who have joined with us in our mission to contribute to a
better quality of life for all.
In addition to our efforts, the Jaguars Foundation also serves as
the team's vehicle of change in the city, assisting at-risk youth
and families through a variety of programs, including strategic
grants. Under the leadership of Delores Barr Weaver, Jaguars
Foundation Chair and CEO, the Jaguars Foundation focuses on support
of programs serving economically and socially disadvantaged youth
and families in Jacksonville.
The Foundation awarded $1,057,850 in grants to thirty seven local
youth-serving agencies in 2007. The grand total since 1995 is
more than $10.9 million in the Jacksonville area (Baker, Clay,
Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties).
“Our dream of the Jaguars Foundation began even before Jacksonville
was awarded the 30th NFL franchise in 1993,” Weaver exclaimed.
“I am proud of the Jaguars and the Jaguars Partners for making the
annual million dollar commitment to support these important programs
for youth and their families.”