Maniac Foundation, founded by Darius Leonard, hosted a football camp and park reopening in Lake View, South Carolina. Lake View is the hometown of Leonard, and the park, Hilltop’s Park, is where he used to play as a child. The football camp, lead by Leonard, was for 200 kids from the local community.
Darius Takes His Philanthropy Very Personal
Leonard is looking out for the kids, and hoping to provide any kind of positive change in their lives. At the dedication of the park Leonard said, “You know, [I’m] just trying to touch the next kid that can be the next Darius Leonard or whoever they want to be. I grew up playing basketball up there and you know, those things right there, I gotta be that one to make it a very special, special spot for a kid to be at.”
Most things were replaced with something brand new, in a full overhaul of the park . This included the entire basketball court, brand new restrooms, outdoor lights, and a new playground. “Having a slide, having a nice basketball court so no one gets hurt. Just want to bring the community back out,” Leonard said to WMBF. “Especially with COVID. Like I keep bringing up COVID, but a lot of people don’t go outside and exercise anymore so I want to make sure that I give them the resources to go outside with their family or go out there and shoot basketball or whatever the case may be for them.” Leonard has a big heart and has a deep devotion to his community.
Darius Leonard Feels the Need to Give Back
After graduating from Lake View High School, Leonard attended South Carolina State University where he became the all-time leading tackler in school history. He’s now one of the top linebackers in the NFL.
“I’m out here living that dream and seeing all the 53s and seeing the kids in my jerseys. It’s a very humble experience to kind of see that and it makes my heart smile to come back and see a lot of people, especially kids, that look up to me and you know want to be like me,” Leonard said.
The striking difference between Leonard’s on-field and off-field personalities is incredible. From the “Maniac” to the Philanthropist who loves seeing the local kids in his jersey is quite the transformation. I think this speaks to his professionalism. It also shows that he can control his passion and focus it on a goal he wants to achieve. Darius Leonard is a man for the fans and the community around him.
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