NFL quarterback Peyton Manning is no stranger to charitable efforts. Wherever the current Denver Broncos quarterback has put down roots, in college or during his professional life, he's worked to establish an off-the-field reputation with fans almost as sterling as the presence he builds week in and week out, on it.
Manning, 39, recently made an unannounced and unexpected visit to the site of the Chattanooga shooting to speak with and console military personnel and other members of staff at the Naval Marine Corps Reserve Center. Manning further expanded his efforts to aid those in need in the wake of the tragedy by announcing the establishment of the Chattanooga Heroes Fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga in order to honor those who lost their lives and those who were wounded and to help support their families through this traumatic ordeal.
Manning has made an initial donation and additional donations can be made at CFGC.org.
"Our family has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with the great city of Chattanooga, and it has a very special place in our hearts," Manning said. "But on July 16th, this strong, welcoming community was forever changed by the tragedy that unfolded.
"The five servicemen who gave their lives, the police officer who risked his life in order to protect others, and the actions of many other first responders were truly heroic. We are proud to team up with the Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga to establish the Chattanooga Heroes Fund honoring these heroes and helping to provide for the future of their families."
Former Chattanooga mayor Bob Corker has also made an initial donation.
"We deeply appreciate Senator Corker's support in establishing the Chattanooga Heroes Fund and hope that others can do what they can to recognize the noble actions of the servicemen who sacrificed and risked their own lives last week," Manning said.
The Chattanooga Heroes Fund will be administered by the Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga, the city's oldest community-owned foundation. With over 50 years of managing funds to address areas of need in Chattanooga and the greater community, the CFGC has shown an outstanding track record as it's managed 350 funds that total more than $100 million in assets and more than $14 million in grants in 2014.
"We are proud to support Peyton by serving as home for the Chattanooga Heroes Fund, and we will work closely with him to ensure proper protocols for funds disbursement are in place," said Foundation President Pete Cooper. "We will also work closely with the appropriate military personnel to ensure support from the funds reaches those families."
You can also give by check and by phone as well as online. Follow the links provided above for more information.
