CFL stars help tackle life’s challenges
CFL stars James Wilder Jr., Mike Reilly and Brandon Banks are all fathers, so they know the value of a stable environment for children.
The trio earmarked separate children’s charities for donations after securing the top three spots in the 2017 Shaw CFL Top Performers program.
Wilder, a Toronto Argonauts running back, donated $25,000 to Covenant House — which provides shelter for homeless youth — while Reilly, the Edmonton Eskimos quarterback, allocated $15,000 to Adarius 4 Autism, which was founded by former teammate Adarius Bowman for youth diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
And Banks, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats’ speedy receiver/kick returner, donated $10,000 to the David Lane Youth Successful Fund at John Howard Society through Give Proof to Our Youth in Hamilton.
“I’m always trying to impact and affect youth,” said Wilder, a 26-year-old father of four.
“I’ve visited Covenant House ... and it just inspired me. To have these kids from everywhere who haven’t been dealt a winning hand, I want to be able to give them a chance at a better life. They ’re our future.”
The CFL and Shaw Communications announced Monday Shaw would donate $50,000 to the Canadian charities selected by the league’s top performers.
The six-foot-three, 227-pound Wilder topped the standings. The former Florida State star was the CFL’s top rookie after registering 1,405 yards from scrimmage and helped Toronto win the Grey Cup.
Reilly finished behind Wilder after capturing the CFL’s outstanding player award.
He and Bowman were teammates for five seasons. Reilly said watching Bowman build Adarius 4 Autism from the ground up made the decision to donate easy.
“I’ve watched first-hand how important it was and how he’s truly trying to make a difference.”
Banks finished third.