Sports Philanthropy Interview-Super Bowl 59-RR-Garret Wallow
Garret Wallow from the Tennessee Titans joined Roy Kessel and Sports Philanthropy Network on Radio Row at Super Bowl. Garret shared his insights into his philanthropic work, including his involvement with Basket of Hope, supporting children in hospitals, and his past community engagement with the Boys & Girls Club and cancer awareness initiatives. He also discussed his passion for giving back, inspired by personal experiences, and his commitment to making a meaningful impact both in Houston and Nashville.
Garret Wallow
Garret Wallow is a professional football player for the Tennessee Titans and a dedicated philanthropist committed to making a difference in the communities he serves. Before joining the Titans, he spent three seasons with the Houston Texans, where he actively engaged in various community outreach initiatives. His passion for giving back was shaped early in life, and throughout his NFL career, he has sought opportunities to use his platform to uplift others.
One of Wallow’s key philanthropic efforts is his involvement with Basket of Hope, where he helps distribute gift baskets to children battling illnesses in hospitals. His commitment to supporting pediatric patients stems from his desire to bring joy and encouragement to families facing difficult times. In Houston, he also worked extensively with the Boys & Girls Club and cancer awareness organizations, inspired by his personal experience of losing a family member to cancer.
Despite facing setbacks, including a season-ending injury, Wallow remains deeply committed to community service. While he is still establishing his philanthropic presence in Nashville, he has made it a priority to continue his charitable work, particularly in areas related to youth mentorship and health advocacy. His dedication to making a lasting impact highlights the power of athletes using their platform for social good.
Basket of Hope
Basket of Hope is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing joy, hope, and encouragement to children battling serious illnesses. Through their signature initiative, they distribute customized gift baskets filled with toys, books, games, and comfort items to pediatric patients in hospitals. The organization partners with professional athletes, celebrities, and community leaders to personally deliver these baskets, creating unforgettable moments for children and their families.
Founded on the belief that emotional support is just as important as medical treatment, Basket of Hope aims to uplift the spirits of children facing difficult health challenges. Their work extends beyond hospital visits, as they also provide ongoing support and resources for families navigating childhood illnesses. The organization’s impact is driven by generous donations, corporate partnerships, and the dedication of volunteers who share a common goal of spreading kindness and hope.
Through initiatives like Super Basket of Hope, which expands their outreach during Super Bowl week, the organization has been able to reach thousands of children nationwide. With the involvement of athletes like Garret Wallow, Basket of Hope continues to inspire communities and make a difference in the lives of young patients. Their mission aligns with the broader movement of sports philanthropy, demonstrating how professional athletes can create meaningful change off the field.
WATCH INTERVIEW
0:00 – Garret Wallow joins Roy Kessel at Radio Row to discuss his community involvement, including his work with Basket of Hope.
0:27 – He shares how he got involved with Basket of Hope through a personal connection and his desire to bring joy to children in hospitals.
1:02 – Wallow explains the impact of visiting pediatric patients, emphasizing that these children are the real heroes in their battles against illness.
1:28 – He reflects on his relationship with Tony Dungy, who introduced him to philanthropy and inspired his commitment to giving back.
2:16 – Wallow recalls first meeting Tony Dungy while at TCU, where he was impacted by Dungy’s leadership and values.
3:00 – He discusses his transition to the Tennessee Titans, acknowledging that he is still working to establish deeper roots in the Nashville community.
3:11 – He shares his extensive community involvement in Houston, including work with the Boys & Girls Club and cancer awareness programs.
4:02 – Wallow explains how NFL teams provide opportunities for players to give back, particularly through weekly Tuesday service initiatives.
4:40 – He reflects on his personal connection to cancer awareness, sharing how the loss of his aunt shaped his passion for supporting cancer patients.
6:01 – Wallow highlights the importance of openly discussing struggles, noting that athletes speaking about personal challenges can inspire and empower others.
