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New England Patriots Linebacker Adalius Thomas Kicks-Off the School Year by Giving Local Students Backpacks and Game Plan for Success

Second Annual "Kick-Off the School Year Rally" Benefits Students in Underserved Communities

Today, following his stellar performance in a win on Sunday, New England Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas visited the Holland Community Center in Dorchester to distribute 200 backpacks full of school supplies to local children, and help them to get excited for a great school year. The Second Annual Kick-Off the School Year Rally is sponsored by Thomas' charitable foundations, and is presented this year in partnership with Boston Centers for Youth & Families. Through the program, Thomas will provide backpacks and school supplies to 1,200 students in the Dorchester area.

The Holland Community Center is one of 46 facilities under Boston Centers for Youth & Families, a City of Boston department under Mayor Thomas M. Menino, charged with enhancing the quality of life for Boston's residents by supporting children, youth and families through a wide range of programs and services.

Since arriving in Boston last year, Thomas has been active in the local community, partnering with educational and youth services organizations. While visiting the Holland Community Center, Thomas spoke with children about overcoming adversity and setting high expectations; as well as the importance of focusing on one's academics in order to be successful later in life.

"Positive role models and constant encouragement are critical for young people, especially for those who lack a strong mentor in their life," said Thomas. "I'm very humbled by having the opportunity to help support the future success of these promising children."

About the Boston Centers for Youth and Families

Since July 2002, Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) has functioned as the City's youth and human services headquarters, combining the services once provided by several city departments under one roof. BCYF's mission is "to enhance the quality of life for Boston residents by partnering with community center councils, agencies and businesses to support children, youth, individuals and families through a wide range of comprehensive programs and services according to neighborhood needs." The organization's 46 facilities (including 21 pools and one beach) are located in neighborhoods across the city and serve some 90,000 residents each year with childcare, youth empowerment, adult education, senior citizen, and sports, recreation and enrichment programs. Each community center offers programming tailored to meet the needs and interests of their members.

About Adalius Thomas' S.L.A.S.H. FUND

Established in 2002, S.L.A.S.H Fund focuses on supporting education in our cities' urban areas. Because so many children do not receive enough support and encouragement in their academic careers, they often need outside help to help them succeed. The fund supports numerous educational and mentoring programs, including BELL (Building Educated Leaders for Life), the Boys & Girls Clubs, Johnnycake Elementary (in Baltimore) and Adalius Thomas Football Camp in Mississippi. To learn more, please visit .

About Pro Sports Philanthropy

Pro Sports Philanthropy is a cause-marketing firm that helps athletes develop and implement their vision for community involvement. The company forges partnerships with corporate and non-profit organizations that help support the athletes' goals and drive greater awareness and fundraising for their cause. To learn more about Pro Sports Philanthropy, please visit .