Famous NFL player to host golf tournament to raise money for Tulsa kids to participate in sports

TULSA, Okla. — Former NFL Wide Receiver Donald Driver is holding a fundraiser to help underprivileged Tulsa-area children participate in sports.

The fundraiser is about reaching children and showing them their value, so they don’t turn to a life of crime.

“I have no ties to Tulsa,” Driver told FOX23.

But he wanted to make a difference in the Tulsa community, so in 2021, he made a phone call to Tulsa Crime Stoppers’ Executive Director Karen Gilbert. Once they connected, “Driven NFL Flag Football” became a reality.

“Kids don’t have the opportunity to play in organized sports,” said Driver. “This is just a great opportunity for them.”

FOX23 reported in August 2021 when Driver came to Tulsa to kick off the program’s first season. Driver, in partnership with Crime Stoppers and others, are holding a golf tournament on August 12 at the Hard Rock Casino Country Club.

The extra money needed as at least 500 children are expected to sign up for the program this fall.

“We know a lot of families that have multiple kids that can’t afford to pay the money,” Driver said. “This is a great opportunity to allow those kids to play for free.”

And to be coached by some of Tulsa’s first responders, which Driver said is important for community policing.

“We want to make sure they get to know the police department,” he said. “That is they’re serving and protecting them every single day.”

As for the golf fundraiser, Driver said they want 36 teams. Most of which are already filled, there’s only a few spots left.

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