What is the purpose of the Motiv8 Foundation?
The mission of Motiv8 is to create and support economic and educational programs and athletic activities for underserved youth and for those experiencing homelessness. The ultimate purpose is to help and provide opportunities for communities in need to be successful. The same communities who have given me opportunities to be where I am today
What are some of the projects or events the Motiv8 Foundation has supported that you are most proud of?
Our two biggest events for Motiv8 are our Oahu golf tournament and Sweet Cheeks Wine label. We just had our 6th Annual Golf tournament at Oahu Country Club and will be releasing our third wine label in partnership with Eugene-based winery, Sweet Cheeks Winery, on 4/23. Our goal with Motiv8 is take the money raised in such events and put it back into the local communities in which they took place. We have great relationships with the Boys and Girls Club in Hawaii and Eugene. Both are near and dear to my heart. I used to volunteer and its awesome for me to have it come full circle where I can now give back to those programs that helped me grow and be successful.
Most recently a partnership with Office Depot allowed us to establish our first “Motiv8 Lab”. Put inside the Spalding Boys and Girls Club of Hawaii on Oahu, the lab includes brand new computers, desks, chairs, headsets, TV monitor for Zoom calls, a printer, and all the necessary software and programs kids may need for school. The presentation of this coincided with a football camp for 200 kids around Oahu, which honored the late Colt Brennan.
Some of my most favorite projects are when I have been able to be hands on. Programs like back to school backpacks and Boys and Girls Club visits.
Why is it important for you to give back in Oregon?
Oregon was a part of my journey and helped me become the person that I am today. I want to give back to a community that gave so much to me.
Being considered a "Legend of Oregon" goes beyond your on-field legacy. It's also about your character and the fact that you continue to inspire Oregonians, especially kids. Who are some of the individuals who have inspired you throughout your life?
Without a doubt, my parents. What they sacrificed for my brother and I to have the opportunities and experiences that we did, was truly inspirational. Their support and commitment allowed us to be where we are today.
The quote featured on the shirts - "When things start to get rough, you find comfort in your faith. Knowing that no matter what, you can dust yourself off and be ok." - is about perseverance and overcoming adversity. Why did you choose this quote and why do you think the message is important to emphasize?
I think everybody experiences their own form of adversity at some point in their life. Being able to persevere will not only make you stronger but provide a platform for you to help others. Staying faithful provides the foundation for which you can grow from. At the end of the day, working through your challenges will ultimately make you a better person.
Shop the Legends of Oregon collection here