NFL: Kelly endorses charity

Here’s a press release on a new charitable venture by Malcolm Kelly:

Former University of Oklahoma wide receiver Malcolm Kelly recently announced his plans to enter the 2008 NFL draft. The 21-year-old, All-Big 12 Conference performer will begin his professional football career by publicly endorsing the global charity Mercy Ships at a press conference on February 5 in coordination with the charity’s International Board of Directors Meeting being held at the offices of Clifford Chance at 2001 K St NW, Washington, DC 20006.

Kelly finished high school in his native Longview, Texas, and by this time his talent and love for the game of football had blossomed. The 6-foot-4 speedster accepted a full scholarship to the University of Oklahoma as one of the nation’s top prospects at wide receiver. After only three years, Malcolm has developed into one of the top-rated wide receivers eligible for the 2008 NFL Draft.

True to his character and Christian upbringing, the first thing Malcolm has committed himself to do as a professional athlete is to leverage his role to make a difference in the lives of others. Mercy Ships connection with Africa and the proximity of the International Operations Center for Mercy Ships to his home area helped make the global charity a natural fit for the young African- American athlete.

Malcolm said, “I wanted this to be the first thing I did to begin my career as a professional athlete. I’m not even in the league yet, but I know how important it is to do the right things in the right way. Mercy Ships is all about that. They deliver free, life-changing medical assistance to people in Africa and third world countries that need help the most. As an African-American, I feel a connection there. I just hope that this first small step will help shed light and get the word out on what an incredible organization Mercy Ships is.”

Mercy Ships Chairman of the Board, Myron E. “Mike” Ullman III stated, “Malcolm’s achievements as an athlete are extraordinary and we are sure he will excel in the NFL. But it is his maturity to recognize the potential for helping the poorest of the poor by supporting Mercy Ships in Africa that is most impressive. It makes a strong statement about his personal character and values as a young man.”