THE R.A.C.E. FOUNDATION
RISE ABOVE YOUR
CURRENT ENVIRONMENT
Empowering the next generation
to reach their full potential
OUR MISSION & CORE VALUES
The R.A.C.E. Foundation serves as a vehicle to promote charitable, philanthropic, and grassroots community activities. We are committed to enhancing our community by teaching critical life skills, promoting health and nutrition, and developing young people into self-aware leaders.
Our programs reinforce three core pillars:
1
EQUIP
Providing children and young people with the critical life, financial, and vocational skills they need to succeed.
2
ENCOURAGE
Engaging youth through creative outlets, quality health, and nutrition education to foster well-rounded growth.
3
EMPOWER
Instilling the importance of treating everyone with respect, standing up for others, and remaining true to oneself.
A MESSAGE FROM OUR FOUNDER
"Growing up in the Birmingham area, I learned early on the value of community, education, and having positive role models. Football has blessed me with an incredible platform in the NFL, but my true purpose is giving back to the community that shaped me. Through The R.A.C.E. Foundation, my goal is to show the next generation that no matter where you come from or the obstacles in your way, you have the power to rise above your current environment. Through education, dedication, responsibility, and integrity, together we can build a brighter, more empowered future for our youth."
— Michael Jackson Sr., Carolina Panther & Founder of The R.A.C.E. Foundation
WHAT WE DO
We believe in showing up for our community. From the classroom to the football field, our initiatives are designed to uplift families and provide youth with the tools they need to thrive.
THE MIKE JACK EXPERIENCE
Our flagship annual Leadership and Skills Football Camp. This free, one-day event for ages 7–18 goes beyond the gridiron. Campers receive basic and advanced football instruction from NFL veterans alongside vital leadership development to help them succeed on and off the field.
THANKSGIVING
TURKEY DRIVES
We believe every family deserves a warm, stress-free holiday meal. Our annual Thanksgiving Turkey Drive provides turkeys and essential groceries to families in our community facing financial hardships.
LITERACY & MENTORSHIP PROGRAMS
Through programs like RACERS 4 LIT, RACERS Excel Mentoring & Leadership, and the Common Ground Student Lock-In, we focus on early reading proficiency, financial literacy, and holistic mentorship to ensure our kids are prepared for the classroom and beyond.
Help Us Make a Difference
Your generosity fuels our mission. As a grassroots nonprofit, we rely on the support of community members like you to fund our literacy programs, youth camps, scholarships, and family giveaways. Whether you give your time or a financial gift, every contribution helps someone in our community rise above their circumstances.