Community Outreach by Tennessee Titans Foundation

For the Tennessee Titans, football is more than just a game—it’s a way to connect with the Nashville community and create lasting positive change. At the heart of this mission is the Tennessee Titans Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting education, health, and youth development initiatives across Middle Tennessee. Community Outreach by Tennessee Titans Foundation isn’t just a series of one-time events; it’s a year-round commitment to lifting up local families, empowering young people, and strengthening the bonds between the team and the city it calls home. From funding school programs to hosting free health clinics, the foundation’s work touches thousands of lives annually, reflecting the Titans’ belief that a successful franchise must invest in the community that supports it.

Community Outreach by Tennessee Titans Foundation starts with its flagship education program, “Titans Read & Achieve,” which aims to improve literacy rates and academic engagement among elementary school students in underserved neighborhoods. The program partners with 25 Nashville-area schools, providing each with a library of 500 new books, weekly reading workshops led by Titans players and cheerleaders, and incentives for students who meet reading goals—like free tickets to Titans home games or visits from team mascot T-Rac. Last year, the program helped 3,200 students increase their reading proficiency by an average of one grade level, with 85% of participating teachers reporting improved student confidence in class. Quarterback Will Levis, a frequent volunteer with the program, says, “Reading is the foundation for everything, and if we can help kids fall in love with books, we’re setting them up for success beyond the classroom.” The foundation also awards $100,000 in college scholarships each year to high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence and community service, further investing in the next generation of Middle Tennessee leaders.

Community Outreach by Tennessee Titans Foundation also prioritizes health and wellness, addressing food insecurity and access to healthcare—two critical issues facing many local families. Each month, the foundation hosts “Titans Community Food Drives” at Nissan Stadium, collecting nonperishable food items to distribute to local food banks like Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee. Last year, these drives collected over 50,000 pounds of food, enough to provide 41,000 meals to families in need. The foundation also partners with local hospitals to host free “Titans Health Clinics,” offering vision screenings, dental checkups, and immunizations to children whose families can’t afford regular healthcare. In 2024, the clinics served 1,800 kids, with many receiving their first ever dental cleaning or eye exam. Defensive end Jeffery Simmons, who grew up in a community with limited healthcare access, says, “No kid should have to go without seeing a doctor or dentist. These clinics aren’t just about health—they’re about giving families peace of mind.” The foundation also supports mental health initiatives, funding counseling services for teens and hosting workshops on stress management and emotional well-being.

Community Outreach by Tennessee Titans Foundation is a key part of the Tennessee Titans’ identity, with players, coaches, and staff actively participating in every initiative. The Tennessee Titans require all players to volunteer at least 10 hours annually with foundation programs, and many go above and beyond—like running back Derrick Henry, who hosts a free football camp for 500 kids each summer, teaching them not just skills on the field, but lessons about teamwork and perseverance. The Tennessee Titans’ coaching staff also gets involved: head coach Brian Callahan regularly visits schools as part of the “Titans Read & Achieve” program, reading to students and sharing stories about his own educational journey. “Our players and coaches aren’t just athletes—they’re role models,” says Titans Foundation Executive Director Beth Sankey. “When kids see someone they look up to taking time to care about their community, it sends a powerful message that they matter.” This player and staff involvement helps the foundation build trust with the community, ensuring its programs are responsive to local needs.

Community Outreach by Tennessee Titans Foundation reflects the Tennessee Titans’ long-term commitment to Nashville, even beyond football season. The Tennessee Titans don’t just show up for events—they partner with local organizations to create sustainable solutions to community challenges. For example, the foundation recently invested $250,000 to build a new playground and community center in a low-income neighborhood in East Nashville, working with local residents to design a space that meets their specific needs. The center now hosts after-school programs, job training workshops, and senior citizen events, becoming a hub for the community year-round. The Tennessee Titans also support small local businesses, partnering with minority-owned restaurants to cater foundation events and featuring local artisans at Titans home games. “We want to be more than just a football team—we want to be a partner in building a stronger, more vibrant Nashville,” says Titans team president Burke Nihill. This long-term approach ensures the foundation’s impact lasts far beyond a single event or program.

Community Outreach by Tennessee Titans Foundation ultimately represents the power of sports to unite and uplift communities. For Nashville residents, the foundation’s work is a reminder that the Titans are more than just a team—they’re neighbors who care about their well-being. For the Titans organization, the foundation is a way to give back to the city that has supported them for over 20 years, creating a cycle of positivity that benefits both the team and the community. As the foundation continues to grow, it plans to expand its programs to reach more families, with new initiatives focused on affordable housing and job training in the works. In the end, Community Outreach by Tennessee Titans Foundation isn’t just about charity—it’s about building a better future for Middle Tennessee, one program, one child, and one family at a time. And for the Titans, that’s a win far more important than any game played on Sundays.