February 16, 2024 - Atlanta, GA – The Atlanta Falcons and the New Orleans Saints set aside their fierce rivalry to come together for a greater cause. The teams successfully hosted a 50/50 raffle initiative during their head-to-head matchups this past season with the charitable proceeds directly benefiting Team Gleason and Tackle ALS and its efforts to find a cure for ALS.
Fans had a unique opportunity to contribute to the missions of NFL Legends Tim Green and Steve Gleason, whose work in the fight against ALS have inspired millions. Each foundation will receive $250,000 from the teams' efforts. The NFL Foundation also pledged its support by contributing an additional $100,000 to this noble cause, making the total amount raised $600,000.
The NFL Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the National Football League, has a history of supporting various charitable initiatives; and their contribution, alongside both teams, will help make a significant impact in the ALS community.
The funds raised by the Falcons and the Saints along with the contribution by the NFL will play a crucial role in advancing research, providing patient support, and raising awareness for ALS. Tim Green's Tackle ALS charity and the Team Gleason Foundation are at the forefront of these efforts; and the generosity of fans, players and communities from Atlanta and New Orleans will significantly bolster their impactful work and hopefully inspire others to get involved in charitable causes.
"This collaboration transcends the rivalry on the field." said Tim Green, Atlanta Falcons Legend and Tackle ALS Founder "The Atlanta Falcons and New Orleans Saints have shown the world the profound impact sports can have on meaningful causes. The response from our fans has been overwhelming, showcasing the power of unity for the greater good."
"ALS doesn't discriminate, nor does the power of collective action. The alliance between rivals on the field exemplifies the triumph of humanity as we work toward the common goal of ending ALS and caring for those living with it off the field. We are deeply grateful for the support from both fanbases, the teams, and the NFL," added Steve Gleason, New Orleans Saints Legend and Team Gleason Founder.
For more information about the Tackle ALS and Team Gleason organizations, please visit https://www.tackleals.com/ and https://teamgleason.org/.
About Tackle ALS: Tackle ALS was started in 2018 by former Atlanta Falcons Linebacker Tim Green in partnership with the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). Tackle ALS is not a foundation, so every dollar donated goes directly to MGH. Tackle ALS and the Healey & AMG Center are dedicated to the critically important global initiative to accelerate bringing scientific discoveries to ALS patients through innovative trial approaches. Increasing access to effective treatments for people with ALS is a primary shared goal. Identifying effective therapies during these trials brings us closer to FDA approval and the opportunity to make a difference for individuals living with ALS, and our ultimate goal of finding the cures. To learn more please visit www.tackleALS.com
About Team Gleason
Founded by former New Orleans Saints player Steve Gleason after his ALS diagnosis in 2011, Team Gleason is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). At its core, the foundation is on a mission to deliver innovative technology and essential equipment, all while empowering a higher quality of life for those affected by ALS. As the largest provider of technology to the ALS community, Team Gleason stands at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge solutions that are making a profound impact on the lives of those facing the challenges of this relentless disease.
For more information on how you can support Team Gleason and help individuals with ALS lead productive, purposeful, and meaningful lives, please visit https://teamgleason.org/.
About NFL Foundation
The National Football League Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those touched by the game of football – from players at all levels to communities across the country. The NFL Foundation and its members, the 32 NFL clubs, support the health, safety and wellness of athletes, youth football, and the communities that support our game. Celebrating 50 years, the NFL Foundation has become one of the leading philanthropic entities in America, contributing to NFL team communities, national and international disaster relief efforts, and societal issues. The league is utilizing this anniversary to amplify the impact of NFL Philanthropy and the progress made by our nonprofit entities. For more information on the NFL Foundation, visit: www.NFLFoundation.org.
