NFL’s Madieu Williams: Superstar On and Off the Field

When I interviewed Mr. Williams he said growing up in Sierra Leone was fun and it seemed bigger then. He lived there until age nine. His mother inspired him from that early age: donating, working at soup kitchens and making sure he was educated.

Mr. Williams didn’t play football until high school.  “I grew up playing soccer; I wasn’t into football, but I wanted to hang out with my friends so I joined.” (And, he still plays for camaraderie.)

He also thinks it’s important to give to others. “Those who are blessed with a lot have a responsibility to give to those who don’t. Give back money, but also time… time is the most valuable thing you can give.” His charity started small, sending supplies to schools in Sierra Leone.  Shipments got bigger with clothes, shoes and money.  He now makes trips there, bringing teachers, doctors and dentists; and, he still brings school supplies to the school his foundation organized. His current goals for Sierra Leone are to build a middle school, high school and solar power plant.

Without a doubt there’s more to Madieu than stats.  He has inspired me to do more.  For more about Madieu’s charity in Maryland and abroad, www.madieuwilliams.org.

7th grader Sam Turnbaugh, Hereford Middle School, Baltimore County, enjoys helping in his community and is active in his Boy Scout Troop.

Eighth grader Emily Behan, Hereford Middle School, Baltimore County, is gaining skill as a photographer.