Hoping to learn more about Juvenile Rehabilitation and make a positive impact on the next generation, five Seahawks players spent their day off talking with young people at Echo Glen Children's Center.
“This was a great opportunity to take my time and use my platform to change the next generation,” said Seahawks Wide Receiver DK Metcalf when speaking to young people. “Nobody is forgotten, you’re not forgotten… and just know there is a second chance.”
Metcalf was joined by his teammates Noah Fant, AJ Barner, Tyler Mabry, Coby Bryant, plus Blitz as they surprised young people during an assembly at Echo Glen on Oct. 21.
The visit was not a typical meet and greet. Players sat down with young people and had conversations about life and family. Instead of asking for photos or autographs, young people asked the players what it was like in college and what advice they would give to someone in their shoes.
“People look at us like we are nothing, but they took the time to see us,” said one young man who was overwhelmed and noted that it was the best day he had at Echo Glen.
Players shared advice and personal experiences of friends and family members who had been involved in the justice system.
“You can’t do anything about the past,” said Seahawks Tight End AJ Barner. “What you can do is work on yourself today and be where your feet are. Be in the present moment.”
Following a Q&A at the assembly, each player visited two living units where the young people showed off their drawings, cleanliness, and strength. One young person even challenged DK to a push-up contest, completing around 40 push-ups.
“I had a great time,” said Seahawks Tight End Noah Fant. “I was talking to the kids and hopefully when we come back some of them are not here and they go on their path and get their lives on track.”
The Seahawks visit to Echo Glen was made possible through its partnership with Upower, which provides recreational opportunities and equipment for young people at Echo Glen. The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families would like to thank the Seahawks organization and Upower for making this event possible.
“Committed to empowering youth furthest from equity, Upower recognizes that during the holiday season young people at Echo Glen are separated from their families,” said Upower’s Executive Director Leighla Webb. “To help bridge this gap, we leveraged our relationships with the Seahawks to connect and uplift these young people.”
Upower has partnered with Echo Glen since 2018, serving as the primary provider of physical activity programs.
“This was an amazing opportunity for our residents and something they are likely never going to forget. I could see the excitement and amazement in their eyes as the players imparted encouragement,” said Echo Glen Superintendent Dan White. “The Seahawk players were very down to earth and relatable and their presence and the words they shared has likely inspired hope for a better future for many of them.”