Quarterback Jalen Hurts did more than report for his fifth training camp with the Philadelphia Eagles on Tuesday. The former Alabama signal-caller also announced the establishment of the Jalen Hurts Foundation.
“We’re established on three principles – service, mentorship and progression,” Hurts said in the foundation’s launch video. “I want to serve. I want to be there and help in any way that I can. I think my goal and what I’m trying to accomplish here is just pay it forward.”
The foundation follows Hurts’ contribution of $200,000 in April to the School District of Philadelphia to purchase air-conditioning units.
“You can’t expect these kids to go out there and have big dreams and big goals and not have proper resources,” Hurts said. “Through the Jalen Hurts Foundation, I want to provide service and mentorship and ultimately advance our communities and youth. This is just the first step.”
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The foundation’s website says the organization’s mission “is to strengthen communities by servicing and advancing the youth.”
“The Jalen Hurts Foundation was founded out of years of service and overwhelming gratitude to the communities that have generously become a home away from home for Jalen,” the website reads. “Its mission is to strengthen communities by servicing and advancing the youth. This will be done by providing resources and support programs to create positive role models among our youth. There is an opportunity to encourage and nurture our youth to pursue their passions, and it is a privilege to use our platform to do so. …
“Jalen believes youth across the country possess undiscovered abilities and strengths that have not been utilized. He personally has benefited from the light of encouragement and wants to provide that to others. He intends to impact in ways that inspire, educate and advance the youth. Jalen’s values have been developed from the influence of various communities, readings, and ultimately life lessons. He takes extreme pride and joy in being able to step outside of himself and support uplifting avenues for our youth’s future.”
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Mark Inabinett is a sports reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter at @AMarkG1.