Thomas Davis - Founder
Three time Pro Bowler Thomas Davis considers himself blessed. Mr. Davis often recalls striving daily to keep himself busy with sports activities in order to keep from falling into the cycle of many of those he saw around him. He realizes that making it out of Shellman, GA, population a tick over 1,000, was a miracle in itself and the fact that he was able to live his dream of playing in the NFL for 16 years is an additional blessing from God.
The Carolina Panthers selected Davis in 2005 during the first round. He spent 14 seasons at Carolina, most of which as team captain, then in 2019 signed with the Los Angeles Chargers. After one year he played for The Washington Football Team then in 2021 signed a one-day contract to return home and retire a Carolina Panther.
His mark as a leader on the field is only shadowed by his role as a community leader, helping countless people in need across three states.
The Carolina Panthers named Thomas their Impact Player of the Year in 2016. At the Bart Starr Award Superbowl Breakfast the Athletes in Action presented Davis their award for best exemplifying outstanding character and leadership in the home, on the field and in the community. Thomas was given the highest honor in the NFL in 2014 when he was presented with the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award during the NFL Honor Awards.
In 2011, Mr. Davis returned to college and graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science degree. The university has since inducted him into their Circle of Honor.
Mr. Davis clearly has a passion for football, assisting in positively impacting the lives of youth and he also has a passion for family. He truly enjoys time spent with his wife and their four children.
- University of Georgia Circle of Honor Inductee
- 2016 Carolina Panther Impact Player of the Year
- 2015 Bart Starr Award Recipient
- 2015 NFLPA Byron “Whizzer” White Award Nominee
- 2014 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Winner
- 2015 Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina’s “Compassion in Action”
- 2012, 2013 & 2014 Carolina Panther Walter Payton Man of the Year