Prevention Protection

Gun Safety: Protecting Children from Firearms

By Jessica Feagin on

By Jessica Feagin | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

Many incidences have occurred where young children accidentally shoot themselves with a gun, even in their homes. It breaks my heart how kids are being put in these situations that could have easily been prevented. It is our job as adults to protect our youth. Children are impulsive and naturally curious. Therefore, they explore and pick up things that may spark an interest. Even if you warn your children about the dangers of guns, they still may want to explore the gun. You must teach your children that guns are very dangerous, not to touch the gun, to move far away from the gun, and immediately tell an adult if they see one.

There were at least 2,802 unintentional shootings by children 17 years old and younger, resulting in 1,083 deaths and 1,815 nonfatal injuries between 2015 and 2022 in the United States (“Guns in the home: Keeping kids safe,” n.d.). At least 895 preschoolers and toddlers found a gun and unintentionally shot themselves.

If you have a gun in the home, it is essential that there is a safe space provided in the house. Our responsibility is to ensure the gun is stored correctly and inaccessible to all children. Project ChildSafe Program provides some safety precautions for gun storage (“Parents & gun owners,” 2022):

  • Store unloaded guns in a locked safe, cabinet, storage case, or vault. The location of the storage unit should be inaccessible to children.
  • Gun parts should be stored securely in separate locations if the gun is disassembled.
  • Separate from guns, ammunition should be stored in a locked location.
  • Whenever you remove the gun from storage, double-check it to ensure it is unloaded.

Project Child Safe Program provides free Project Child Safe Safety Kits through their enforcement partners, including a cable-style gun lock and safety instructions. Use this link, Get a Safety Kit – Project ChildSafe, to request a Project ChildSafe firearm safety kit in your state.

Unintentional shootings of children are a devastating occurrence and can be prevented with safety precautions in the home and teaching our children about the dangers of guns. Most importantly, never leave a child alone in the house where a gun is kept. Let’s protect our children from guns.

References:

Guns in the home: Keeping kids safe. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-home/Pages/Handguns-in-the-Home.aspx

Parents & gun owners. (2022, October 25). Retrieved from https://projectchildsafe.org/parents-and-gun-owners/

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Advocacy Beauty Family (PHAMILY) Hopeful Positive

Dear Black Girl & Dear Black Boy: Interview with author Dr. Cheri Langley

By purpose88 on

By Angela Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Jairo David Arboleda on Pexels.com

I had the privilege of interviewing the author of Dear Black Girl and Dear Black Boy.  Dr. Cheri N. Langley wrote these books that brings visibility, perspective, and awareness to some of the issues that impact African American boys and girls.  These short, colorful poems help children process some of the racial tensions that they are facing in society.  Dr, Langley further acknowledges that being a black boy in America can carry anxiety and she offers advice on how to engage with law enforcement that could possibly save lives.

In Dear Black Girl, Dr. Langley approaches the issues of racism, sexism, and misogynistic stereotypes experienced by young African American girls. This literature is to invoke conversation and facilitate a healthy dialogue between young black girls and their parents and caregivers.  The language in both books is in poetry form with pictures that are captivating. Dr. Langley does an outstanding job with describing the life of young African American children and commanding their attention to these stories. Her dedication is inscribed at the beginning of the story where she assures her audience that they are loved, and their voices are heard. She brilliantly puts discussion questions at the end of the books that parents can use to help their children understand the contents and purpose. These books serve to bring truth, facts, and compassion to African American children who may not have a voice. Dr. Langley feels that it is important for children of other races to read the book so they can see the lives of their African American peers through their lens.

Dr. Cheryl Langley’s inspiration for Dear Black Boy came from watching the video of George Floyd. Being the mother of two black sons, she said she could not just “look away” from such a horrific incident and felt the need to write to reach little black boys who may be crying out for help.  Dr. Langley is an advocate for underserved and minority populations and has been heavily involved with research involving HIV and AIDS, and sexually transmitted infections awareness and prevention.  She uses her background in behavioral sciences and her work through novels and poems to help facilitate her journey to create positive change, protest injustices, and increase dialogue regarding systemic inequality.  

If you are interested in purchasing either of these works, please check out: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Dr.%20Cheri%20N%20Langley/author/B097QQL3RW

References:

Langley, C. (2023). Dear Black Boy. Dear Black Girl. Langleyresearch.org

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Advocacy Prevention

Taraji P. Henson Brings Awareness to Mental Health

By trjohns3 on

By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Student

Photo by Mizuno K on Pexels.com

Recent attention has been brought to the fact that there is an aspect of adolescent mental health that is often ignored. According to Taraji P. Henson, who serves as a self-appointed ambassador for juvenile mental health, African American youth often experience race-based educational bias (People, 2021). This is closely connected to the fact that these young people commonly receive harsher punishments from school administrators for disciplinary measures. When this occurs, it not only amplifies the school to prison pipeline, but it also makes African American youth feel they are unworthy of empathy, compassion, and/or leniency (People, 2021).  

As a result of this continuing trend, Henson feels African American youth develop anxiety, depression, and a desire to practice social isolation. To prevent adding to reduced mental health in this population, it is encouraged that educational institutions not criminalize actions beyond the measures given to the peers. To assist with this, Henson launched the Unspoken Curriculum. This is a mental health education initiative that addresses persistent psychological risks faced by young black students in the education system (People, 2021). The 6-week program seeks to identity, define, and increase understanding of the existence of race-based educational bias (ABC News, 2021).

With celebrities like Taraji P. Henson joining the fight to save African American youth, average individuals should also feel empowered to evoke. Citizens can rally parents to reach out to school administrators and superintendents through letters and emails to ensure these children are shown kindness, grace, and consideration (ABC News, 2021). They can also enroll youth in the Unspoken Curriculum or similar mental health education programs. This can increase their ability to deal with external and internal stressors in an acceptable and healthy fashion. Overall, the goal is for the nation to join the prevention of criminalizing African American youth in educational institutions (ABC News, 2021). What are your thoughts on ways schools can assist with good mental health for young African American students?

References

ABC News. (2021). Taraji P. Henson talks campaign to address mental health risks for Black

students. ABC News. https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/video/taraji-henson-talks-

campaign-address-mental-health-risks-77823025

Calhoun, Amanda. (2021). The Intersection of Black Youth Mental Health and Racism

Medpage Today. https://www.medpagetoday.com/opinion/theactivistpsychiatrist/95422

People Magazine. (2021). Taraji P. Henson launches campaign to help black students fight mental health struggles. PEOPLE. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cPJitRAM78

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Advocacy Protection

Women of color, celebrity, and risks during pregnancy

By phameuscampaign on

By Ashley Peoples | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Kei Scampa on Pexels.com

On May 2, 2023, Tori Bowie was found dead at her home in Florida following a welfare check performed by local authorities. In June 2023, medical officials said that the world class athlete suffered possible complications that included eclampsia. Eclampsia is a health condition associated with high blood pressure when a woman is pregnant that can lead to seizures, coma, or death (CDC, 2023). Eclampsia may be preceded by preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a disorder of pregnancy indicated by the beginning of high blood pressure and often a substantial amount of protein in the urine (CDC, 2023)

Beyoncé is a well known artist, actor, singer, and song writer. During her pregnancy with her twins, Rumi and Sir Carter, she had a Caesarean section. Mrs. Carter was placed on bed rest, according to The Washington Post. Mrs. Carter was diagnosed with toxemia per the Washington Post as well. Toxemia is when the blood has poison in it, also referred to as preeclampsia.

According to the NIH (National institute of Medicine) African American women in the United States have higher risk of preeclampsia. The prevalence of preeclampsia has risen significantly within the past 20 years among African American women (Karrar & Hong), 2023). Consistent readings of blood pressure measures of higher than “140 over 90” may indicate that a pregnant woman has preeclampsia. Specifically, 140 is the top number measures systolic blood pressure and the bottom number, 90, measures diastolic blood pressure. To learn more about blood pressure readings, visit the American Heart Association

Mrs. Carter stated “My health and my babies’ health were in danger, so I had an emergency C-section” per an interview in the Washington Post. Mrs. Carter is lending her voice by telling her story, raising awareness of circumstances experienced by African American women regarding pregnancy. Her interview and actions are in alignment with public and community health efforts to raise awareness and support to address preeclampsia and eclampsia. For more information regarding these conditions and other pregnancy resources, please visit the March of Dimes, Preeclampsia Foundation, and campaigns by the CDC.

Are you or someone you know currently pregnant? What concerns do you have during your pregnancy? What recommendations do you have for expectant mothers? As Mrs. Carter stated “I was in survival mode and did not grasp it all until months later. Today I have a connection to any parent who has been through such an experience” (WP, 2021). Connect with others and let’s share our experiences in support of one another. Share in the comments section below and/or visit us on Facebook here.

References:

WP Company. (2021, October 25). Beyoncé, Serena Williams open up about
potentially fatal childbirths, a problem especially for black mothers. The
Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2018/08/07/beyonce-serena-williams-open-up-about-potentially-fatal-childbirths-a-problem-especially-for-black-mothers/

Karrar SA, Hong PL. Preeclampsia. [Updated 2023 Feb 13]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK570611/

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Family (PHAMILY) PHAITH (Faith) Solidarity (Commonality, Humanity)

Watching Violent Crime on the News – Does It Impact Your Health?

By abenko2016 on

Angela R. Wilson | Intern UAB School of Education | CHHS

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

We see it every day, it is on the local news, it is on social media, radio stations and even discussed on college campuses and work sites.  Violent Crime seems to be trending in an upward trajectory across the country. Mass shootings, murders, rapes, assaults, and robberies; it is paramount that we remain vigilant of our surroundings to try to stay safe. With violent crimes increasing since the pandemic, many people are afraid to do simple things like go shopping, go to the movies, or even sit on their front porches.  Obviously, crime is affecting how people work in their daily lives, but does it also impact your health?  The short answer is Yes.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, violent crime not only contributes to physical injuries, but also can manifest other mental health diseases such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, (PTSD), feelings of distress, and depression. Additionally, there is a strong correlation between violent crime and the development of diseases like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, gastrointestinal disorders, neurological and musculoskeletal disease, and lung disease. These conditions can have significant detrimental consequences on the health and well-being of people, families, and communities.   People who see violence regularly may also experience loneliness and isolation and may resort to binge drinking and indulging in tobacco products. They are less likely to participate in healthy behaviors, such as bicycling, walking, using parks, and other recreational spaces and may not invest in proper nutrition or take prescribed medication.

As many local, state, federal agencies and politicians’ network to find viable strategies to quell some of the violence, it is extremely important to employ coping mechanisms to protect your physical and emotional health.  Identifying support systems, resources, self-care, deep breathing, meditation and participating in faith-based activities are a few strategies that may be beneficial. Also, while we need to be aware of things that happen in our communities that may be violent in nature, we must be careful not to become overly consumed. Taking the necessary steps to protect your physical, emotional, and mental health, are paramount, even if that means not watching the news sometimes.

References

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Community Violence Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov.

Vinney, C. (2022). What is the Impact of Violent Media on Mental Health? https://www.verywellmind.com.

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Advocacy Positive Profiles Solidarity (Commonality, Humanity) Understanding (Insight & Wisdom)

The History Behind Carrie A. Tuggle Elementary School

By purpose88 on

Angela Wilson | Intern UAB School of Education | CHHS

Photo: Instagram | #carrieatuggleelementaryschool

The History Behind Tuggle Elementary School

Tuggle Elementary School is located in Birmingham, Alabama and has approximately 472 students from Pre-Kindergarten to fifth grade. Although it has been affiliated with The Birmingham City School System since 1926, many natives of Birmingham are oblivious to the remarkable history embedded in its name.

Tuggle Elementary School is named after Carrie A. Tuggle, a fierce innovator whose trailblazing efforts are still visible today.  She was born in 1858 in Eufaula, Alabama and subsequently married John Tuggle and had four children.  The couple eventually moved to Birmingham in search of better job opportunities.

Mrs. Tuggle excelled in education, social work, and religion, and found her calling when she began working with delinquent boys as a welfare officer.  After speaking on behalf of boys as young as ten years old, she was inspired to provide housing accommodations for orphaned black children.  She initially took them into her home, until she was able to open a single-building school in September 1903. Named The Tuggle Institute this facility allowed black, destitute orphans and juveniles to receive an education. She also used her courtroom experience to help create The Jefferson County Juvenile and Domestic Court. 

The Tuggle Institute garnered praise from the citizens of Birmingham and was noted for its substantial contributions to the advancement of black people.  Some outstanding alumni who credit Mrs. Tuggle for her influence include Dr. A. G. Gaston, John T. Wheatley, and Erskine Hawkins, to name a few. The Tuggle Institute became affiliated with the Birmingham City Public Schools in 1926. In 1936, The Board of Education named it the Carrie A. Tuggle Elementary School.

Carrie A. Tuggle died in November 1954 and is buried on the school’s ground. There is memorial plaque with these words inscribed: “Carrie A. Tuggle, a scholar, educator, and servant of mankind.” To learn more about Mrs. Tuggle and Carrie A. Tuggle Elementary School, check out https://alafricanamerican.com/beyond-the-book-honoree-archives/beyond-the-book-carrie-tuggle/

References:

Alabama Women’s Hall of Fame. Carrie A. Tuggle. http://www.awhf.org.

Beyond the book – Carrie A. Tuggle – Alabama African American history. Alabama African American History – sponsored by AT&T. (2022, January 14). https://alafricanamerican.com/beyond-the-book-honoree-archives/beyond-the-book-carrie-tuggle/

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Encouragement Hopeful Prevention Protection

John Mulaney’s Battle with Addiction – Turning Darkness into Laughs

By abenko2016 on

Amanda Benko | UAB School of Education Intern – Community Health & Human Services

John Mulaney is a popular stand-up comedian who has famously used his difficult past experiences as the subject of much of his routine, which includes a new relationship, birth of his son, and most notably addiction to cocaine, alcohol, and prescription medications. Most fans are aware of Mulaney’s past issues with drugs and alcohol, shedding light on his sober life and turbulent relationship with narcotics. When you watch Mulaney’s comedy, you’ll see a courageous man whose comedy is rooted in his personal experience.

Drug-related deaths accounted for over 109,000 US deaths in 2021 according to the NIH. Statistics include the fact that just in the last year, over 9.2 million people over the age of 12 admitted to using opioids (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 2023). Drug abuse and addiction are anything but funny. If you are like me and have lost friends and loved ones to the disease of addiction, you certainly understand there is nothing comical about it. This is an epidemic the White House has attempted to tackle, along with the medical community, law makers, and countless civilians. Mulaney makes jokes about how absurd he behaved on drugs, not about addiction itself.

He publicly thanks those who were there and those who have had a hand in his intervention and recovery. As most addicts know, recovery is a journey; and Mulaney is still here making us laugh because his friends cared enough to step in (with help of professionals). Watching his show, the part of his act that stood
out most were the words of Mulaney’s friend, actress Natasha Lyonne. When he tells this story, he is not going for a punchline, he is getting vulnerable about how bad things were. Though not a direct quote, the message stuck with me. Lyonne: Johnny, You gotta go to rehab honey. Your life is in shambles, your career is in shambles. I know you think going to rehab would be embarrassing, but the way you’re living right now is embarrassing. Once you’re out, you can chain-smoke around the streets of New York like you’re the g*d-damn Bob Fosse of your generation. We can walk around dreaming big dreams, like we’re high as a kite; but instead, you’ll be alive, and we’ll be sober together. Mulaney credits Lyonne’s words for being the final straw helping him commit to rehab. His friends saved his life, and because of them, he is still here entertaining us all. As a fan, I am grateful.

If you want to hear more, check out “Baby J” on Netflix, where Mulaney gives his personal account.

If you or someone you know is battling addiction, please call 888.844.9121 for help, or reach out to Narcotic Anonymous at 818.773.9999 or visit na.org.

References: 

Carcieri, R., & Johnston, C. (2022, March 21). John Mulaney’s “from scratch” successfully tackles heavy issues with Grace. The Brown Daily Herald. https://www.browndailyherald.com/article/2022/03/john-mulaneys-from-scratch-successfully-tackles-heavy-issues-with-grace

Grebenyuk, Y. (2023, May 4). Everything John Mulaney has said about drug addiction, recovery. Us Weekly. https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/pictures/everything-john-mulaney-has-said-about-drug-addiction-recovery/

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2023, January 4). Samhsa announces National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) results detailing mental illness and substance use levels in 2021. HHS.gov. https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/01/04/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2023, March 31). Drug overdose death rates. National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates

The United States Government. (2022, April 21). Fact sheet: White House releases 2022 National Drug Control Strategy that outlines comprehensive path forward to address addiction and the overdose epidemic. The White House. https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/04/21/fact-sheet-white-house-releases-2022-national-drug-control-strategy-that-outlines-comprehensive-path-forward-to-address-addiction-and-the-overdose-epidemic/

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Prevention Promotion Protection

Remembering CJ Harris – Alabama Native and American Idol – The Importance of Heart Health

By abenko2016 on

Amanda Benko | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

PHOTO: @CJHarrisMusic / INSTAGRAM

The unexpected passing of CJ Harris, a talented Jasper, Alabama native who gained recognition through his appearance on season 13 of American Idol, is truly tragic. Fans and the music industry have felt mourning after its departure. At only 31 years old, Harris’ death serves as a reminder to prioritize heart health regardless of age.

Harris, recognized for his sincere character and compelling stage aura, made a memorable impact on the show and his fans’ hearts. Even though he was young, his performances highlighted great musical maturity and brought happiness to countless people (11Alive, 2023). CJ Harris, who died on 01/15/2023, went under a medical emergency with family confirming that he had a heart attack that led to his death.

The Importance of Heart Health at Any Age

CJ Harris’s heart condition led to his death since it was asymptomatic and late recognized. Preventing complications and saving lives can be achieved by detecting and addressing heart issues early despite individuals’ age. A healthy heart reduces the chances for complications, which can be achieved by regular medical check-ups, blood pressure screenings, and cholesterol level assessments that can identify potential risks, allowing for timely intervention and lifestyle modifications in all stages of life (World Health Organization, 2021). In addition, awareness about heart-healthy practices from an early stage can imbue lifelong customs that foster well-being.

Enhancing Long and Healthy Life

Heart health should never be underestimated, regardless of one’s age – and the untimely death of Harris serves as a poignant reminder. A healthy heart enhances long and healthy life for people by reducing the risks of cardiovascular diseases in all stages of life. Globally, heart disease remains the primary reason for mortality, affecting individuals from various walks of life. Reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications later in life requires prioritizing heart health regardless of an individual’s age (World Health Organization, 2021). Evidence consistently reveals the interconnection between heart health and overall well-being. Reflecting on Harris’s death, he had a long life to live, only his heart health was not considered (due to his young age), leading to his death at 31. It is essential for individuals to have healthy hearts of all ages.

Reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and enjoying a healthier, more fulfilling life is possible for individuals by taking proactive measures and making informed lifestyle choices. Both individuals and society must promote heart health through education, awareness campaigns, and accessible healthcare services. A good and prosperous life depends on having a healthy heart. Have you talked to your doctor about heart health?

References

C.J. Harris, former “American Idol” contestant, dies at 31. (2023a). Retrieved June 21, 2023, from 11Alive.com website: https://www.11alive.com/article/news/nation-world/cj-harris-dies-at-31/507-7e872522-cc82-4919-8b09-d4a7fcbb9428

World Health Organization. (2021). Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs). Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cardiovascular-diseases-(vcds)

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Advocacy Encouragement Positive Understanding (Insight & Wisdom)

Lizzo Is PHAT and Fed Up! Is There Any Kindness on Social Media?

By purpose88 on

Angela Wilson | Intern UAB School of Education | CHHS

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Is There Any Kindness on Social Media?

Melissa Viviane Jefferson, also known as Lizzo, is a talented singer, songwriter, rapper, and actress.  She is a trained flutist and has cemented herself in history by playing a crystal flute that President James Madison once owned at a concert in Washington, D.C.  She has won four Grammy Awards, two Soul Train Awards, and a Billboard Music Award.  With over 13 million Instagram followers, there is no denying that Lizzo is a hip- hop and cultural icon. But with all her wealth, success, and fans, Lizzo is ready to call it a quits.  She admits to being fat and she (usually) proudly displays her body in skimpy, revealing outfits, but not without social media trolls reminding her that she is overweight.

One would think that having a voice and stage presence as large as Lizzo’s, she would be somewhat shielded from mean spirited people who seem to get joy from name calling. Unfortunately, this is not the case.  Lizzo is constantly fat shamed because of her body.  She posted to her Twitter account (in part), that she was close to giving up and quitting because of all the name-calling she receives.  She concluded that the love she receives does not outweigh the hate.  So here we are (seemingly) on the cusp of losing one of the most influential hip-hop icons of our time, all because of a lack of kindness and compassion from the social media community.

Lizzo’s experience is just a small sample of a larger issue that is impacting millions of Americans. As our world leans more toward innovative technology and digitalization, we are seeing an increase in people being targeted by online bullying and offensive name-calling.  According to The Pew Research Center (Vogels, 2021), 41% of adults have experienced online harassment, and women are more likely than men to be victims.  While some perpetrators perceive cyberbullying as harmless fun, the effects of cyberbullying are serious. Victims of online bullying may experience feelings of distress, increased feelings of mood swings and depression, insomnia, low self-esteem, and even suicide.   So, while Lizzo’s platform brings visibility to this ongoing issue, there is a significant amount of work to be done to help alleviate it, and that work starts with each of us. As social media users, we need to get involved and actively promote a safe, supportive, and welcoming online environment for people being bullied.  There are no bystanders when it comes to cyberbullying and harassment. So, the next time you are on Facebook, Instagram, or any other social media platform, and you see someone being cyber-bullied, will you interject with kindness and be a part of the solution, or be a part of the problem?

References

Cuncic, A. (2022). Verywellmind. The Psychollogy of Cyberbullying. https://www.verymind.com.

Vogels. E. (2021). Pew Research. The State of Online Harassment. www.pewresearch.org.  

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Encouragement Mission-fulfillment Positive

Michael Leon- From Ghana to Michigan

By purpose88 on

Angela Wilson | Intern UAB School of Education | CHHS

Photo by Asiama Junior on Pexels.

Michael Leon is a 22-year-old extraordinary athlete at the prestigious Ivy League University of Michigan. He has achieved impeccable stats while participating in the University of Michigan Men’s soccer program.  As a freshman, he started in 3 of the 12 games he played in and achieved a season -high 74 minutes at Oakland. His sophomore year would be equally impressive as he managed to log 84 minutes on the pitch shortly after recovering from a back injury. He has won Allstate and first-team All-star several times and has traveled internationally for training with youth academies. With such a stellar athletic resume, he has a promising future with encouraging prospects.  But this modest athlete is not only thinking about how he can make the future better for himself but also wants to make things better for others.

Michael Leon comes from humble beginnings. He was born and raised in Accra, Ghana, and has dreamed of being an athlete ever since he was ten. His love, tenacity, and passion for soccer helped to propel him from his native land to broader horizons. He played ball in Europe and subsequently moved to America to further his education and dreams.  After attending The Hotchkiss School in Connecticut and becoming one of the region’s top soccer players, Michael Leon committed to The University of Michigan, where he continues to deliver dynamic performances on and off the soccer field.

Remembering his earlier life in Ghana, Michael Leon is determined to make a difference.  He established the Michael Leon Project and partnered with The Uniform Funding Foundation (TUFF) to help provide equipment and uniforms to youths in Ghana.  Adam Shibley, the founder of TUFF, created the non-profit organization to help underserved youth sports teams acquire sports gear. Michael Leon approached him with the idea of providing these items to children in his homeland.  Earlier this year, Michael Leon and Adam Shibley traveled to Ghana and hand -delivered sports equipment to children at Israel Park in Ghana.  Michael Leon is not just a stand-out athlete. He is a compassionate human being who wants to be a role model for his community and provide children with the inspiration and motivation they need to chase their dreams.  Although Michael Leon is still pursuing his degree at the University of Michigan, it is almost certain that he will achieve more academic, professional, and philanthropic accomplishments.

References

Sigal, Jonathan. (2019). Recruiting: Hotchkiss Forward Michael Leon Commits to Michigan. https://www.nesoccerjournal.com.

The Uniform Funding Foundation. (2018). https://gettuff.org. 

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