Bears’ Israel Idonije Makes Big Plays For “IZZYz KIDz”
Hugbacker had the recent thrill of getting to know defensive tackle Israel “Izzy” Idonije. His foundation provides positive, life-changing experiences for kids in economically disadvantaged communities. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Izzy’s family moved to Manitoba, Canada when he was five. A true hometown hero, he’s not only the first Manitoban to play in a Super Bowl, but to make it into the NFL. He recently helped provide Thanksgiving dinner to 1,000 people, including families from the four schools he adopted through his “IZZYz KIDz” program. Extremely active in the community, devoted to seeing kids reach their full potential, and (as the video shows), the 6′6″ bundle of fun isn’t afraid to take a few hits on the skating rink. Keep reading for our interview with Izzy.
PHOTO: Chicago Bears
HB: What’s your main message to the kids you support?
II: That with education, anything’s possible. The last thing on so many of these kids’ minds is education; they’re in districts where attendance is low. We want them to understand the importance of showing up as the first step to success. We challenge them them to attain 95% participation through our “First Down” program. If they hit it, we reward them with group activities. One of our schools, Alex Haley Academy, had the most improved attendance in the district.
[Idonije also brought the First Down program to Winnipeg this year.]
HB: Do you actually go to the school?
II: Every Tuesday! It’s so rewarding, the kids get so excited.
Check out the kids having a blast at Izzy’s First Down Kickoff event:
HB: You won the prestigious JB Award earlier this year for your dedication to the community. Seems like we’re always hearing about you out there making it happen, especially for kids.
II: That award was such an honor. Honestly, it’s just how I was raised. My parents are both ministers, and they’ve run a program called the Street Love Mission in Brandon, Manitoba for years. It’s a nonprofit organization that helps homeless and needy people. And now I’m in a position to give back, so I do.
