Detroit kicked off NFL Draft week with the Community Impact Draft on Monday afternoon, deploying more than $1 million in nonprofit investments in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
Local and national officials gathered at Detroit’s Corner Ballpark for the event to announce programs and grants for 30 education, sports, and business nonprofit organizations in the region.
“Community impact is just as important. When the NFL leaves a city, what will be left behind? Part of our mission at the NFL is we want to positively impact the legacy after they leave. “That’s what we did,” said Dave Beechnow, the association’s executive director. Detroit Sports Commission.
Modeled after the NFL Draft format, donors and donors took turns on stage to give speeches and pose for photos, and donors left with Detroit Sports Commission 2024 jerseys and hats. Attendees displayed high levels of enthusiasm throughout the event, with repeated applause, cheers, and laughter as speakers discussed the impact of the grants and the draft. The venue was buzzing with excitement as attendees chatted and listened while enjoying free food and drinks.
“The NFL is excited to join Detroit in the 2024 NFL Draft as we welcome fans and prospects,” said Christina Hovestadt, NFL Senior Manager of Community Relations. It’s an exciting time and one of the most hopeful.”
The Detroit Sports Commission will provide funding to local nonprofits through its Living Legacy Initiative in conjunction with the NFL Draft. Additional grants to nonprofits will come from Amazon, the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, the Southeast Michigan Community Foundation, and others.
“Our Living Legacy Initiative was developed as a key component of a successful NFL Draft bid, and today’s announcement comes as we continue our efforts to infuse community support into locally hosted games. , is a tangible fulfillment of our commitment to the NFL and the Detroit community, “It’s more than just a sporting event than the NFL Draft,” Beechnow said.
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The NFL hosts regional events throughout NFL Draft Week to encourage public participation.
“We’re excited to make an impact here in Detroit by hosting community events that highlight the unique role of football in bringing people together and leaving a positive impact on our city,” said Hovestadt. Told.
The event was attended by Mayor Mike Duggan, several Detroit City Council members, and community leaders including Wayne County Executive Warren Evans. The crowd cheered as Duggan threw a football to mark his official start and announce the start of NFL Draft Week.
“I hereby declare the 2024 NFL Draft event and celebration in Detroit officially open,” Duggan said.
Hovestadt said this investment will ensure the 2024 NFL Draft will have a long-term positive impact on the region.
“The NFL is committed to serving the Detroit community, and we look forward to making an impact that will resonate long after the final pick is made,” Hovestadt said.
