No PHLY Zone Challenge -Interceptions for Youth Sports Safety

With the help of his teammates, Malcolm Jenkins is calling on the public to help raise awareness for youth sports safety by making a pledge to The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation’s No PHLY Zone Challenge. By visiting www.pledgeit.org/malcolmjenkins, fans are asked to commit a dollar amount of their choice for every interception made by the Philadelphia Eagles defense this season. Supporters can also make a one-time flat donation to support Jenkins’ efforts. Jenkins will personally match the total amount of dollars raised to support the Foundation’s programs and youth sports safety initiatives.As a thank you for giving, the Foundation is offering unique incentives, including VIP tours with Jenkins at Lincoln Financial Field and swag from the Foundation’s #NoPHLYZone collection.The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation is playing a leading role in helping to build awareness around youth sports safety through programs it offers that impact youth, families and communities. Through its partnership with Safe Kids New Jersey, a program founded and sponsored by Johnson & Johnson, the Foundation educates youth parents and guardians on important health and safety topics including: Nutrition & Hydration; Injury Prevention & Care; Concussion Recognition & Recovery; Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Athletes; Importance of Sleep in Athletes; and Anti-Bullying. The partnership has had its greatest impact at Jenkins’ annual youth football camp, and greatly supports the Foundation’s efforts to provide year-round programming and information that educates youth and their parents and guardians about the importance of good health and safety on an off the field.      

Visit www.pledgeit.org/malcolmjenkins to join the No PHLY Zone Challenge.

New Orleans Scholars Attend Hollywood Premiere 'The Perfect Guy'

On Wednesday, September 2, three New Orleans high school students, selected from The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation’s (TMJF) Project R.E.W.A.R.D.S. (Reinforcing Education With Activities Recreation And Developmental Supports) program at College Track New Orleans, received the opportunity of a lifetime when they attended the premiere of the ‘The Perfect Guy,’ at the WGA theater in Beverly Hills, California. Invited by Philadelphia writer and producer Tommy Oliver and sponsored by TMJF, Jourdan Hannah (11th grade), Matthew Weber Jr. (12th grade), and Roycelyn Wise (12th grade) walked the red carpet with Oliver and his wife Codie hours after an intimate meet and greet over breakfast.“Our Project R.E.W.A.R.D.S. students work incredibly hard, and Tommy Oliver offered them an opportunity to experience what happens when that hard work pays off,” said TMJF Founder Malcolm Jenkins and Philadelphia Eagles Free Safety. “The Foundation was excited to make this a reality for them.”While in California, the students also had the opportunity to tour the campus of UCLA!

TMJF Announces Fall Fundraisers

Ready for the NFL season to kick into high gear? Fall is just as jam-packed for The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation as we work around the clock to provide resources to underserved youth! Whether you know us best from our work in Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Ohio or New Jersey, your support is needed, as it helps us continue making a positive and sustainable impact in the lives of our young people.  We hope that you will join us at one of the following events!

Creole, Cajun, Cabernet, and more! Malcolm Jenkins and Jairus Byrd of the New Orleans Saints play host on October 26 at the 3rd ‘Taste of New Orleans’ fundraiser. Sample fare from the city’s top restaurants and wineries, dance the night away to live jazz, and peruse auction items including quintessential culinary experiences from around The Big Easy, autographed sports memorabilia, and luxury vacations. With proceeds benefitting The Foundation’s Project R.E.W.A.R.D.S. program and other youth development initiatives, everyone walks away a winner.For more information, visit here. Early bird tickets are on sale through August 31 and are only $100!

Supporting TMJF in Philadelphia? Join us for an upscale evening of ‘Blitz, Bow-Ties, & Bourbon’ in the City of Brotherly Love! Premium spirits and tastings from Philadelphia’s top chefs set the mood as you brush elbows with members of the Philadelphia Eagles. Who will be representing the home team in our mission to uplift Philadelphia’s young people? Find out on November 2 at Blitz, Bow-Ties, and Bourbon!For more information, visit here. Through August 31, Early bird tickets are available at $100 for General Admission and $150 for VIP.

TMJF, Pepsico & Feed The Children Unite to Defeat Hunger

Philadelphia - In the United States, the roots of hunger go deep. In Philadelphia, 27 percent of households live below the poverty level and far too many children go to bed hungry. This is why The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation and PepsiCo has partnered with Feed the Children to host  “Get Ready Fest: Feeding Philadelphia”—an event that provides 800 pre-identified Philadelphia-area families with wellness resources, food, and essentials. The event will take place Friday, July 10th at Spruance Elementary School (6401 Horrocks St., Philadelphia). Get Ready Fest sponsors and volunteers will offer a number of activities for a day of fun, and distribute food and personal essentials.The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation (TMJF) is proud to team up with Feed the Children again at this important event,” said TMJF Founder and Philadelphia Eagles Free Safety Malcolm Jenkins. “Year-round, The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation works to empower communities and equip young people and their families with the tools they need to succeed. This is our second year partnering up on “Get Ready Fest,” and we value this opportunity to help alleviate hunger and food insecurity in our region.” 

Hometown hero Malcolm Jenkins brings NFL talents to Piscataway

PISCATAWAY – For the past four years young football players have clamored for a chance to work out alongside and to meet National Football League professionals; Philadelphia Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins delivers that and so much more to them.Four hundred athletes ages 7 to 17 came out to train with NFL players for the annual Malcolm Jenkins Next Level Youth Football Camp at Piscataway High School on Friday and Saturday.Jenkins, who played for Piscataway, began the camp as a way to give back to his alma mater."When I was younger my parents sent me and my brothers to camps, but they were always out of town," Jenkins said. "Then, once I got to the NFL I saw the veterans who had camps in their hometowns and it was something I wanted to bring here, and the biggest thing I wanted to do was to make it free... and once I gave that to my mom she kind of put it in motion to get it moving."Registration for the camp fills up within one day every year.NFL players who committed to attend included New Orleans Saints guard Jahri Evans, Eagles quarterback Mark Sanchez, Eagles long-snapper Jon Dorenbos, Eagles defensive end Vinny Curry, Eagles wide receiver Jordan Matthews, New York Giants linebacker Jonathan Casillas, former Saints defensive back Reggie Jones, Eagles linebacker Najee Goode, Saints cornerback Kyle Wilson and Detroit Lions safety Isa Abdul-Quddus.There was no mistaking who the pros were due to their sheer size and presence on the field, however their demeanor and attentiveness to the campers demonstrated their heartfelt desire to make an impact.Not only did participants experience professional level drills used at the NFL Scouting Combine, but they also learned the importance of academics, self-discipline and taking care of their health.Jenkins believes that health and safety is a concern for the family as well as the young athlete which is why his foundation worked closely with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital to present a seminar which informed parents and guardians on key issues that could affect their children."We started out just doing all football and then we wanted to do something for the parents too as they sit out here so we brought in local partners to talk to the parents about sports health and how to properly take care of their kids as they participate in football...so they learn how to properly diagnose and treat or take care of concussion symptoms, injuries, hydration, sleep and all the things that affect young athletes," Jenkins said.While parents and guardians attended RWJ's Safe Kids program the campers heard the same information during their lunch break in their own seminar, ensuring that the whole family received a cohesive message.On Friday, as they enjoyed lunch brought in from Chipotle, Jenkins took the opportunity to impress upon the kids the importance of academics and hard work both on and off the field.Jenkins' teammate Matthews delivered a similar message when he spoke emphatically of his personal experiences making it into the NFL."I can come up here and tell you guys that you can be whatever you want to be, but that's not true, you'll be whatever you work to be," Matthews said. "Everybody had to come to this seminar as part of the camp, but it's up to you whether or not you listen and take the knowledge we impart on you."Jenkins realizes that being a professional athlete affords him the ability to deliver an important message to those who look up to him."A lot of times we talk about how important school is because you can't play football on the next level without going to college and to go to college you have to have the grades and to be eligible you have to maintain the grades and if you want to do anything outside of football you have to have a degree that's worth something," he said.Jenkins is clearly passionate about his foundation, his camp and his hometown. He generously shared his time, talent and wisdom with the camp attendees and asked for nothing in return other than that they give their best."It's just a reminder to me that, these kids are out here, and literally years ago I was out here doing the same thing," Jenkins said. "I was out here working hard and it paid off, right on this same exact field so it kind of just brings it all full circle when we try to explain to them the road to success."Original article:  Alyssa Davis, Editorial Intern 2:48 p.m. EDT June 21, 2015  http://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/sports/nfl/2015/06/20/hometown-hero-malcolm-jenkins-brings-nfl-talents-piscataway/29056907/ 

400 Kids Join NFL Pros at 4th Annual Malcolm Jenkins Football Camp

On June 19-20, 2015, aspiring young athletes will learn football fundamentals that extend beyond the bleachers, as Philadelphia Eagles Free Safety Malcolm Jenkins, his NFL friends, and area high school coaches team up for the 4^th Annual Malcolm Jenkins Foundation (TMJF) Next Level Youth Football Camp at Piscataway High School in Piscataway, NJ.The free non-contact football camp goes beyond the drills to teach 400 participants, ages 7-17, the skills required to be successful on and off the field. That means not just providing the basics of the game, but also educating them on the importance of a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Jenkins hosts the camp, along with invited NFL players who share their time and talents, coaching participants through drills and providing lessons on teamwork and sportsmanship.Confirmed professional football players in attendance include: Jahri Evans (New Orleans Saints), Mark Sanchez (Philadelphia Eagles), Vinny Curry (Philadelphia Eagles), Jordan Matthews (Philadelphia Eagles), Jonathan Casillas, (New York Giants), Reggie Jones (New Orleans Saints, Former), Najee Goode (Philadelphia Eagles), Kyle Wilson (New Orleans Saints) and Isa Abdul Quddus (Detroit Lions). 

Eagles Youth Partnership a success

Philadelphia Eagles standouts free safety Malcolm Jenkins and linebacker Brandon Graham participated in the Eagles Youth Partnership, After School Activities Partnerships as they hosted the 12th annual on Tuesday in the Panasonic Club at Lincoln Financial Field. Jenkins and Graham had a chance to play chess against a number of Philadelphia’s outstanding young chess players.More than 200 of the city’s best youth chess stars competed against each other and the Eagles players in four rounds of competition. According to the U.S. Chess Federation and numerous research studies, participating in the sport of chess fosters academic achievement and increase patience, self-control and sportsmanship among school-aged kids.The all-day, invitation-only tournament featured 225 youth chess players in grades 1 through 12 from ASAP’s Philadelphia Youth Chess Challenge who played against each other as well as Jenkins and Graham.

Original article:  Donald Hunt Tribune Staff Writer  http://www.phillytrib.com/sports/eagles-youth-partnership-a-success/article_0294f66b-0a26-50ba-96cb-f3aae69570ac.html

Malcolm Jenkins Foundation Awards Scholarships to NOLA Youth

The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation recognized high school seniors for their commitment to academic excellence, leadership and community through its Project R.E.W.A.R.D.S. program that teams up with the Nationally acclaimed  College Track Program. Twelve (12) students each received $1,000 scholarships, ($12,000) to start them on their way toward financing their college education.The 2015 Project R.E.W.A.R.D.S scholarship winners marks the fourth year that The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation has helped deserving youth pursue their higher educational aspirations at an accredited college or university of their choice.

Click here to view photos by KatRamPhotography 

2015 Malcolm Jenkins Scholars:

High Academic AchievementYolanda AndradeDiamond LandryDewey SampsonBianca AncarAlonzo BoothJeremiah WallaceMost ImprovedImani PittmanJordan FlemingOvercoming the OddsTia CageRobert BurnsideLauren BaumanOlivia Douglas

Partnership to deliver Baskets of Hope to Children at St. Chris

St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children is pleased to welcome The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation (TMJF) to its hospital as they deliver more than 140 age appropriate gift baskets and hope totes to seriously ill children and their parents or guardians on Thursday, April 30, 2015, at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children in Philadelphia, PA.“Basket of Hope is thrilled to have Malcolm Jenkins and his foundation personally deliver these generous gifts to the children in St. Christopher’s. The families will truly enjoy meeting Malcolm and lifelong memories will be made.” says Angela Brunette, Founder and National Executive Director, Basket of Hope.Basket of Hope worked with sponsors and donors, including The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation, to secure over $1,000,000 worth of items that were packed in more than 4,000 baskets and totes, by more than 700 volunteers in Glendale, AZ during this year’s Super Bowl Week. The baskets and totes were shipped compliments of FedEx to more than 20 hospitals in NFL team cities nationwide. NFL players, coaches, and other local volunteers personally delivered them to children and their parents/guardians.The gift baskets are age appropriate filled with toys, games, crafts, stuffed animals and other items. The Hope Totes, which are optional for the adults, contain gifts to nourish them physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually including inspirational materials, music, jewelry, snacks, coffee, teas, mugs, and more.

Click here to view more photos.

Malcolm Jenkins among 5 finalists for prestigious 'Whizzer' White Award

Malcolm Jenkins is among five finalists for the  prestigious Byron “Whizzer” White Award given annually by the NFL Players Association for community service in players’ cities and hometowns.The other finalists: Bears cornerback Charles Tillman, Chiefs punter Dustin Colquitt, Vikings linebacker Chad Greenway and Giants linebacker Jameel McClain.The winner will be announced March 18 at the NFLPA's annual meetings in Hawaii and will receive $100,000 for his foundation or a charity of his choice.The award is named for Supreme Court Justice Byron Raymond “Whizzer” White, a scholar, athlete, humanitarian and public servant. Each team nominated players.Last year's winner was 49ers receiver Anquan Boldin. 

MALCOLM JENKINS MOTIVATES STUDENTS AT BLACK HISTORY PROGRAM

The Lake Forest North Elementary School’s Black History Month celebration was made extra special with a visit by Malcolm Jenkins, Safety for the Philadelphia Eagles, who was the motivational speaker for the program. Jenkins, an advocate for youth and education, was invited in his role as Founder and Chairman of The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation. Philadelphia Eagles Mascot SWOOP joined Jenkins for a very spirited Question and Answer session.Lake Forest North Elementary School, located in Felton, DE, is an award-winning Title I school comprised of grades Kindergarten through Three with a mission to make America great by giving students the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to become successful, responsible citizens in this ever-changing world.The school’s Black History Month Celebration was an entertaining and enlightening melange of songs and portrayals of notable African-Americans. Noting “Black History is American History,” Jenkins encouraged the youngsters to “read and learn as much as you can about the contributions of Blacks and others in history all year.” His remarks also focused on the importance of being a good and well-balanced student; listening to parents and teachers, and caring for others; at home, in school and in their community.

Malcolm Jenkins makes impact during Super Bowl week with Super Baskets of Hope

The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation (TMJF) kicked off the week celebration of Super Bowl XLIX by joining hundreds of community volunteers to assemble over 4,000 gift baskets for seriously ill youth at hospitals in NFL team cities around the country, as part of the Super Baskets of Hope packing day in Glendale, Arizona.

For the second year, the Malcolm Jenkins Foundation is a participating sponsor of the Super Baskets of Hope program, joining many NFL players, coaches, alumni and teams across the country. “We are proud to be among those making a difference for youth by helping to brighten their day,” said Malcolm Jenkins, founder and chairman of The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation.

The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation has programs in locations that have impacted his life — New Jersey, where he was raised and starred at Piscataway High School; Columbus, Ohio, where he went to college and played football; New Orleans, where he played five years with the Saints; and Philadelphia, where he plays with the Eagles.

Basket of Hope each year delivers thousands of gift baskets to hospitalized children and their families. The baskets are filled with games, crafts, toys, and books. Parents receive Hope Totes filled with inspirational materials and books. The gifts are made possible by the generosity of sponsors and donors. Over $1,000,000 worth of gifts will be shipped compliments of FedEx to more than 20 participating hospitals across the nation where they will be personally delivered by NFL players and other volunteers. Jenkins, TMJF Board Members and volunteers, will personally assist in the local deliveries.

For more information about Super Baskets of Hope please visit superbasketsofhope.org.

Founded in 2010, the Malcolm Jenkins Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to achieve positive change in the lives of youth, particularly those in under-served communities; by providing resources, innovative opportunities and experiences that will help them succeed in life and become contributing members of the community. The Foundation is committed to youth development initiatives and programs, which emphasize character development, mentorship, leadership, education, life skills health and recreation.

For more information visit themalcolmjenkinsfoundation.org.

Source: http://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/local/outreach/caring-communities/2015/01/27/piscataways-jenkins-makes-difference-sick-kids/22406265/

EAGLES SAFETY MALCOLM JENKINS’ BLITZ, BOW-TIES & BOURBON RAISED FRIENDS AND FUNDS TO SUPPORT PROGRAM EXPANSION

The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation held its first annual Blitz, Bow-Ties & Bourbon fundraiser Monday, December 8 at the beautiful and historic Union Trust in Philadelphia. Guests enjoyed a melange of delicious chef tastings; live entertainment; fashion; collectibles; and connecting with Philadelphia Eagles Safety Malcolm Jenkins and his teammates - making it an evening to remember.Proceeds from the evening will support the expansion of the Foundation’s programs for youth in the Greater Philadelphia area. TMJF and its programs are committed to making positive change in the lives of youth, particularly in under-served communities. Its programs focus on character development, leadership, mentorship, education, health and wellness, life skills and recreation. 

Congratulations to Our Game Day Experience Winner

We want to thank you for supporting The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation! Your generous donation will be put to good use to fund youth development initiatives and programs that emphasize mentorship, character development, leadership, education, life skills, health, and recreation. The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation uses these programs to promote positive change in the lives of youths in underserved communities.Please help us congratulate our winner, Mike! He and his family have been huge Eagles fans for over 40 years. He is so excited to be supporting The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation and the work that we are doing in the Philadelphia area.

NFL STAR MALCOLM JENKINS' FOUNDATION TO OFFER DREAM EXPERIENCE

Omaze, the online platform that offers anyone the opportunity to enter to win once-in-a-lifetime experiences with celebrities, athletes, and the world’s greatest thinkers, all to benefit social causes, has partnered with NFL Philadelphia Eagles star Malcolm Jenkins and his charity, The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation to offer a dream football experience to one winner for donations that begin at just $10. The Omaze experience will fly one winner and his or her guest of choice to Philadelphia to join with the Super Bowl Champion. The winner will receive 2 VIP sideline passes to join Jenkins on the field before taking prime seats to watch the Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys Sunday Night Football showdown on December 14, 2014. The winner will also receive two Philadelphia Eagles #27 Elite jerseys and one night in a beautiful 4-star hotel.The Omaze process works similar to a charity raffle. The user-friendly site allows anyone to enter to win an Omaze experience of his or her choice by donating just $10. Once the deadline to enter for the experience passes, Omaze collects all the entries and selects the winners through a third party computer-generated random selection process. The proceeds are delivered to benefit a specific social cause, in this case, The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation.For more information visit:  www.omaze.com/eagles.

 Join Malcolm Jenkins on the Sideline for Eagles vs. Cowboys   

 To Benefit The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation

ENTER TO WIN!

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GET READY FEST™ COLUMBUS, OHIO HELPING 800 FAMILIES

In the United States, hunger’s roots go deep and specifically in Columbus, Ohio where 22 percent of households live below the poverty level and are at risk of going to bed hungry.  That’s why The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation and Teleperformance have partnered with Feed the Children to kick off “GET READY FEST” Columbus– an event that provided 800 pre-identified Columbus--area families in need with wellness resources, food and essentials.  On October 17 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., Get Ready Fest sponsors and volunteers met at Second Baptist Church at 186 N. 17th Street in Columbus to offer a number of activities and distributed food and personal essentials, as well as an overall day of fun for youth.

The event included a Kids’ Zone where youth experienced an array of fun activities including face painting. Big Brothers Big Sisters were also be on-site to sign up children to participate in their programs as mentees.

The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation, Omega Psi Phi, and Feed the Children Help 800 Families at Philly’s “Get Ready Fest™”

On Friday, July 11 The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation partnered with Feed the Children and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. to host the “GET READY FEST” at Deliverance Evangelistic Church.  Together, they established this community outreach event to support families by providing food, personal care products, clothing, fun, as well as wellness resources to 800 Philadelphia-area families.

 

It was a sea of purple as dozens of brothers of Omega Psi Phi from all over the country assisted nearly 3000 people with their bags, boxes, and shopping carts through the various stations and to their vehicles.  Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is the first international fraternal organization to be founded on the campus of a historically black college.  “As a longtime supporter of Feed the Children, we’ll have hundreds of volunteers at this important event,” said Dr. Andrew Ray, Grand Basileus, Omega Psi Phi.  “It is part of our ongoing commitment to make a long-term impact on our community,” he added. The founding principles of Omega Psi Phi fraternity are manhood, perseverance, uplift and scholarship.

New Jersey native, Malcolm Jenkins, NFL Free Safety for the Philadelphia Eagles and 1st round draft pick of the XLIV Super Bowl Champion New Orleans Saints(2009), is also a member of the purple and gold brotherhood which is hosting their 79th annual week-long Conclave in Philadelphia this week.  Malcolm founded the The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation (TMJF) in 2010 with a commitment to youth development initiatives and programs which emphasize mentorship, character development, leadership, education, life skills, health and recreation.  “The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation is proud to team up and partner for this important event, our first in the Philadelphia area” said Malcolm.  “Our work with Feed the Children and ‘GET READY FEST’ aligns with our mission to achieve positive change in the lives of youth, particularly those in under-served communities by providing resources, innovative opportunities and experiences that will help them succeed in life and become contributing members of their community.”Feed the Children’s fleet of over 40 semi-trucks carried meals and necessities all across the country as  part of the organization’s “renewed vision”  to create a world were no child goes to bed hungry.  This was one of the first events which showcased their new logo, and all benefiting families were pre-identified by Feed the Children’s nonprofit partner in the Nicetown section of Philadelphia.  Children were provided coats, shoes, and school uniforms donated by Soles 4 Souls and Big Brothers Big Sisters volunteers were on-site to connect families with mentors.  “I remember what it’s like to be a kid, filled with wonderment, curiosity, and just wanting to play,” said CEO of Feed the Children, Kevin Hagan.  “Every child deserves that, and that’s what we’re setting out to achieve today with our important partners. We’re helping kids be kids.”

 

 

 

 

 

Malcolm Jenkins, Jonathan Casillas, Jason Worilds: Three special athletes, people

 By John Haley/For The Star-Ledger

on June 22, 2014 8:46 p.m.

People who surround NFL players Malcolm Jenkins, Jonathan Casillas and Jason Worilds continually use words like special, different, caring, generous, hard-working …Not only has their exceptional athletic ability led them to successful careers in professional football and to a Super Bowl, but they are using their fame as a platform to touch the lives of others.That was all on display this weekend when all three were out there sweating on their own dime to head up camps at their respective high schools, something they don't have to do, but want to do.All for free.Jenkins, 6-foot, 205 pounds, is a five-year pro out of Piscataway High School where he stood out in football and track, leading the Chiefs to three straight sectional titles at wide receiver/defensive back and winning the 400 meters at the Meet of Champions as a junior.

Malcolm Jenkins (left) with Piscataway High School coach Dan Higgins.(Photo by Cynthia Vaughn)

 

An All-American defensive back at The Ohio State, Jenkins won the Jim Thorpe Award as a senior, which is awarded to the top defensive back in the country.The No. 14 pick in the 2009 NFL draft, Jenkins played five  years with the Saints, winning a Super Bowl in 2010 and was eventually named the team's defensive captain. In March, Jenkins signed a three-year contract with the Eagles as a free safety.“Malcolm is a born winner, a born leader,'' said Piscataway coach Dan Higgins. “He is all about hard work and giving back. He has to be one of the hardest working players in the NFL and that's on and off the field. What a role model he is and we're so proud of him here at Piscataway.''Casillas, 6-foot-1, 230 pounds, is a five-year pro out of New Brunswick High School who starred in football, basketball and track. He helped lead the Zebras to a sectional title with a 12-0 record in 2003, only the school's second unbeaten season in over 100 years of existence. He also finished third in the 100-meter dash at the Meet of Champions as a senior.After a serious knee injury at Wisconsin curtailed his college career, Casillas signed with the Saints as a free agent and wound up starting at linebacker. He was on the Super Bowl winning team with Jenkins in 2010 and was the player officially credited with recovering the onsides kick to start the second half.Casillas, who has persevered despite multiple surgeries in college and in the pro's, played with New Orleans for three years and is now in his second year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He missed the entire 2010 season after suffering a foot injury in the pre-season and suffered a season-ending knee injury after the 12th game of last season. In March, Casillias signed a one-year deal with Tampa Bay and is listed as the starting strong side linebacker on the team's depth chart.

From left, Diana Starace, SafeKids Coordinator for Middlesex County (Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital); Malcolm Stansbury, fastest man award winner in his age group; Malcolm Jenkins; Gwendolyn V. Jenkins, President, The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation (Photo by Cynthia Vaughn)

 

“His work ethic as a student and an athlete is what set Jonathan apart from the others,'' said New Brunswick head coach Don Sofilkanich, who was an assistant when Casillas played at New Brunswick. “He was always so focused on doing things the right way in the classroom, on the football field and in the community. Those are the things which led him to the success he is having and he continues to live like that. He's such a special kid.''Worilds, 6-foot-2, 260 pounds, was a First Team, All-State pick at Carteret where he played on the defensive line, linebacker and fullback. Worilds went on to star at Virginia Tech before the Steelers drafted him as the 52nd pick in the 2010 draft. He is now a four-year rising star with the Steelers as the starting right outside linebacker and signed a transitional contract in March. Worilds helped the Steelers reach the Super Bowl in 2011, but was inactive for the game.“From high school to college to the pros, he's the first one at practice, the last to leave,'' said Carteret assistant coach Keith Kapinos. “He works harder than any kid I've ever seen and when people ask him why he works to hard, he'll tell them his mother had to work three jobs, sometimes 20 hours a day to provide for her family and that's hard work, not what he does. He's just a different kid.''MALCOLM JENKINSWhen Jenkins first signed with the Saints, he naturally donated his time, visiting sick children, donating money for the homeless and was involved with several other causes in the New Orleans area.

His mother, Gwendolyn V. Jenkins, noticed her son doing all these things, so she came up with an idea to make his presence felt on a larger scale.“He was doing all these things under the radar, going to hospitals, donating money and being so involved in the community,'' explained Gwendolyn. "So I said 'let's put a focus on this, create a foundation and we can reach out to a larger audience. Malcolm first funded the project with $10,000 out of his own pocket.''The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation was born and is now in its fifth year with Gwendolyn serving as its president. This is third year Jenkins has run a free camp at Piscataway High.

From The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation mission statement: ''The Foundation's mission is to effectuate positive change in the lives of youth, particulary in underserved communities; by providing resources, innovative opportunities and experiences that will help them succeed in life and become contributing members of the community. The Foundation is committed to youth development initiatives and programs, which emphasizes mentorship, character development, leadership, education, life skills, health and recreation.''THE MALCOLM JENKINS FOUNDATIONThe Jenkins camp attracted 400 kids ranging from ages 7-17 on Friday and Saturday.

Malcolm Jenkins inspiring campers (Photo by Cynthia Vaughn)

 

The camp featured NFL players who flew in from all over the country using their own money and who were out there sweating while going through drills with all the campers. Each player gave a inspirational speeches about their journey to the NFL and about the importance of education and giving back to the community.This year, former Piscataway stars Dwayne Gratz (Jaguars) and Stephen Miller (Lions) were on hand, along with Larry Fitzgerald (Cardinals), Jahri Evans (Saints), Brian Robiskie (Titans), Vinny Curry (Eagles), Isa Abdul-Quddus (Lions) and Usama Young (Raiders).

     

“I was really looking forward to this,'' said Gratz, who finished up his rookie season as the starting left corner for the Jags. “It's a great feeling to give back and it's something I plan on doing a lot through football.''“This is something I enjoy, it's close to my heart,'' said Jenkins. “At Piscataway, it was always stressed for us to give back whether we make it to the NFL or are just members of the community, so this is just a natural thing for me. The camp gets bigger and bigger each year as our foundation, so it's something to be proud of.''

Malcolm Jenkins in his new Philadelphia Eagles uniform (Bill Streicher/USA Today)

Added Higgins, “I get excited about this as much as anyone. The effects of having these NFL players here is far more impressionable to kids than seeing them on TV in their uniforms. It gives these kids a chance to be involved in their lives for a day, a chance to reach out and touch them in person.“We always preach giving back here at Piscataway, so when I see them out here doing it, I get just as much satisfaction as winning a championship. These are great players, but great people.''The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation is involved with so many organizations in New Orleans, New Jersey and now Philadelphia as it continues to build. This year the Foundation formed a partnership with Johnson & Johnson, SafeKids New Jersey Division, which offered  sessions for the adult campers on Concussion Recognition & Recovery, Nutrition and Hydration, Acute and Overuse Injuries, Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Athletes and Anti-Bullying.Parents of all campers were invited to a session on Health/Wellness and Sports Safety Information.For full article go to http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-3693440041044336462/malcolm-jenkins-jonathan-casillas-jason-worilds-three-special-athletes-people/ 

TMJF Offers Vouchers for FREE Baseline Concussion Test

A NEW feature of the The Malcolm Jenkins Foundation 2014 Next Level Youth Football Camp (June 20-21) includes the provision of a voucher for a FREE base-line concussion test for campers age 11-17 through its partnership with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset ~ Sports Performance & Rehabilitation Center.The ImPACT (Immediate Post Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) is one important piece of the overall concussion evaluation and management process.  It is a sophisticated test of cognitive abilities which can be used as a tool for health care professionals to track the recovery of cognitive processes, make decisions about academic needs or modifications, and to help communicate post-concussion status to athletes, coaches, and parents following concussion.  The ImPACT test is ideally completed prior to the athlete's sport season and takes about 25-30 minutes to complete and is non-invasive.

• ImPACT features:
  • Measures player symptoms
  • Measures verbal and visual memory, processing speed, and reaction time
  • Reaction time measured to a 1/100th of second
  • Assists clinicians and athletic trainers in making difficult return-to-play decisions
  • Provides reliable baseline test information
  • Produces a comprehensive report of test results

Parents of campers age 11 - 17, may register via the button below for a FREE ImPACT test. You will be redirected to the RWJ website to register. When completing the form, please indicate the preferred time slot for your appointment in the question section of the form.  You MUST use the special code provided at the camp during registration.

**REGISTRATION NOTE:   You will receive a phone call from one of our staff to complete your registration.

Date:  Sat, Jul 26, 2014

Time:  9am - 10am, 10am - 11am, 11am - 12pm, 12pm - 1pm

Location:  Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset MCC

Contact:  Jennifer Weidemann, Ryan McMahon, Katie Reynolds

Phone:  908-203-5972

[button_purple url="http://www.rwjuh.edu/ssp/events/7679.aspx"]REGISTER HERE[/button_purple] 

Eagles' Malcolm Jenkins raised to be a leader

By Zach Berman, Inquirer Staff Writer Philadelphia Inquirer

 

PISCATAWAY, N.J. - When the Eagles started defensive meetings in April, Earl Wolff sat behind new Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins. Wolff glanced over Jenkins' shoulder at Jenkins' notebook and was astounded at the level of detail.So Wolff started sitting next to Jenkins, and he has shadowed the Eagles' top defensive addition since.It's the same notebook former Ohio State coach Jim Tressel remembers Jenkins carrying around when Jenkins was an all-American for the Buckeyes. The Eagles' dogged pursuit of Jenkins had much to do with the way he plays safety, but it was also because of the intangibles they wanted from the player they expect to lead their secondary.

Those intangibles were fostered in the home of Lee and Gwendolyn Jenkins on Third Street off Rock Avenue in Piscataway. That's where Jenkins' friends congregated, where the van that drove the children home from football practice parked, where Jenkins learned leadership from two parents who emphasized looking after others, and where he put those lessons into action as the oldest of three boys.

Recently acquired free agent safety Eagles Malcolm Jenkins and his parents Lee and Gwendolyn Jenkins look at the high school trophy case where some of Jenkins' team trophies are displayed. ( RON TARVER / Staff Photographer ) May 23 2014

 "I've always been the guy out front," Jenkins said. "It kind of comes natural to me."The Eagles signed Jenkins to a three-year, $16.5 million deal when free agency opened in March. It represented the biggest commitment the team made to a safety since Brian Dawkins departed in 2009.The Eagles targeted Jenkins over two acclaimed free-agent safeties whom Eagles coach Chip Kelly was familiar with from his days at Oregon - Jairus Byrd and T.J. Ward.Other dynamics were involved in the team's evaluation, from cost to playing style to health. But the Eagles never wavered in their admiration of Jenkins.They liked the versatility that allows him to play in the defensive box and in deep coverage. They also wanted someone to quarterback the defensive backfield - Kelly compared Jenkins' role in the secondary to DeMeco Ryans' in the front seven. And Jenkins has a reputation of delivering those intangibles.The son of Lee and Gwendolyn Jenkins has been a captain at every level, from a Piscataway High School team with three NFL first-round picks to an Ohio State squad loaded with future pros to the New Orleans Saints defense. So Jenkins understands he was brought to Philadelphia for more than the way he plays safety."If you were to ask me at 9, 14, 19, did I think I was going to be in the NFL, the answer would probably be no," Jenkins said. "But if you were to ask [my parents], would somebody hire me specifically for my leadership skills and the type person I've become, I think they'd say yes."Malcolm's prediction was correct."At this level, obviously they're all good players," Lee said. "The difference at this level is not physical. It's mental."Jumping up

When Jenkins was a teenager, he took a summer vacation to Columbus, Ohio, where his aunt lived, and his parents looked for a local football camp. They found one at Ohio State, not realizing the magnitude of the camp.Jenkins was a one-star recruit at that point. The only school that had aggressively pursued him was Rutgers, just minutes from his home. Not an invited prospect, he paid to attend the Ohio State camp.During one-on-one drills, Jenkins continued jumping to the front of the line. He covered some of the most decorated receivers in the Midwest, switching places with defensive back prospects ahead of him."He was there on a mission," said Tressel, now the president of Youngstown State.By the end of the camp, Jenkins had a scholarship offer.His Piscataway coaches were not surprised that Jenkins jumped to the front. That's always been Jenkins' personality. It was how he was raised, and how he remains. He did the same thing when he was a high school sophomore."We encouraged that," said Larry Lester, Jenkins' assistant football coach and track coach at Piscataway. "He took the liberty of doing it consistently."Naturally curious, Jenkins learned the responsibilities of the other players on the team. Four players at Piscataway during Jenkins' time at the school would go on to the NFL, and his coaches said the other players would follow him."He totally bought in to the fact that he could influence and impact what other people do," said Dan Higgins, his high school coach. "He was a natural leader because of that. It wasn't because we said Malcolm's the captain. It was because Malcolm was the most highly respected guy on the team."Higgins, whose father, Tom, played for the Eagles in the 1950s, listens to Philadelphia sports-talk radio. He hears what Eagles fans want in safeties. He wants them to know Jenkins has those qualities."To know that he is now sought-after for the intangibles that made him so successful when he was younger is a great compliment," Higgins said. "There's great athletes everywhere. . . . It's the other stuff, that's the rarity." 

Defensive quarterback

In an October game against New England, Jenkins was credited with 11/2 sacks of Patriots quarterback Tom Brady. But the sack he talks about seven months later is one that does not appear on the stat sheet.On a first down in the second quarter, Brady identified a Saints blitz. Jenkins barked instructions of his own. The changes freed the middle linebacker, according to Jenkins, who rushed unimpeded for a sack."That doesn't get quantified," Jenkins said, "but if I don't change that call, we don't get that play."Jenkins will be compared to Byrd, and any Eagles safety must deal with the Dawkins ghosts. He is different from both. Jenkins maintained that his best seasons in New Orleans came when he was given freedom to roam around, playing both in the box and deep in coverage. The Eagles are expected to grant him that freedom.His effect also will be seen through those intangibles and how they improve a defense that allowed the most passing yards in the NFL. He said if he can set up the defensive backfield to simply "eliminate the dumb stuff," that will be a major step.Jenkins said cornerbacks can benefit the most from what he does. If he can ensure they are in the proper position, then they can go off their natural instincts."I bring that cohesiveness in," Jenkins said. "You need that one guy who everyone in the secondary can turn to. Because multiple times in a game, there's going to be miscommunication, and you're going to need one voice to clear that up. . . . I've been that guy for a long time."It's a role that Jenkins has held from the time Lee kept him from quitting his youth team. Jenkins has been at the front of the line ever since, a leader on each team and a winner at each stop. The Eagles signed him to be the same in Philadelphia."In my mind, I don't feel like I need to come in and make a drastic culture change," Jenkins said. "I'm going into a good situation where I'm valued, they want me there, and all I have to do is be me."Originally posted on June 2, 2014 http://articles.philly.com/2014-06-02/sports/50248194_1_malcolm-jenkins-earl-wolff-eagles