The Detroit Lions are winning in more ways than one. In their final road game of the 2024 season, the Lions beat the San Francisco 49ers 40-34 at Levi’s Stadium in California and racked up their 14th win. Off the field, the home team is winning, too. This holiday season, the Lions held a winter coat drive at DBG along with other exciting events including holiday shopping experiences and an Inspire Change football clinic at Ford Field.
“Doing this during the holidays means so much,” said Detroit Lions Safety, Kerby Joseph. “A lot of people support us, so being able to give back, I feel like that’s just everything.”
DBG is deeply honored to be the longest-standing Detroit Lions Inspire Change partner. Launched by Lions players and ownership, the Inspire Change initiative enables the team to be a force for positive change in Detroit. Year after year, Lions players and coaches have recognized DBG’s impact through their partner selection process.
This special relationship goes far beyond a typical partnership – it creates meaningful experiences for our students, families, and staff throughout the season. From player visits to youth mentoring moments, every interaction strengthens our shared commitment to Detroit’s future.
“I’m here for my birthday today and was really excited to get the opportunity to meet the guys that changed the culture and give back to the community,” said fan Hector Hernandez-Cruz.
The coat drive wasn’t just about giving — it was also a way to bring more members of the community into our space to learn about our transformative program. When young people walk through our doors at DBG, we don’t just see potential, we see future leaders whose impact will ripple throughout the entire community. We see young people who, given the right environment, will question every assumed limitation and break through every artificial barrier.
“It’s a great opportunity to connect with the community,” said Laura Amtower, DBG’s Director of Academics. “People stopped in to meet some of the players, donate coats, and learn more about DBG — how to volunteer and join our mission.”
The success of the winter coat drive reflects the powerful partnership between the Lions and DBG. Not only were countless coats collected to keep local children and families warm this winter, but the event placed a spotlight on our mission and the importance of community partnerships. To learn more and support our mission, CLICK HERE.
Thank you, Detroit Lions for believing in our mission and helping us create lasting change. From all of us at DBG, happy holidays and happy New Year!
