Making An Impact

[Sir Purr]

When tight end Chris Manhertz called to deliver the good news, both women were instantly in tears.


Sizeable donations were heading their way thanks to the Panthers’ Player Impact Committee.


“It drew some emotion out of me knowing that it impacted somebody so much in a positive way,” Manhertz said of making those calls. “It’s a very empowering feeling.”


The Panthers’ Player Impact Committee recently convened for an exciting project to benefit the people of the Carolinas.


After the players collected grant funds during the 2018 season, and with team ownership matching the total, the Panthers had more than $300,000 for nonprofit organizations at their disposal.


It was then up to the players to decide where to allocate the funds.


The committee met in late May and zeroed in on the following focus areas: police and community relations, teen pregnancy, literacy, affordable housing, bail reform and re-entry after incarceration.


The players were each presented with a binder packed with info sheets on dozens of charitable organizations. Manhertz, wide receiver Torrey Smith, linebacker Luke Kuechly, defensive tackle Dontari Poe and recently retired legend Julius Peppers participated in the decision-making process and mapped out a plan.


“It was a lot to select from,” Manhertz said. “But this group of guys wants to take the initiative when it comes to giving back to the community and helping certain charities. We take a lot of pride in it.”


With their selections made, Manhertz got on the phone to personally deliver the news to each organization. Monday afternoon, a group of players dispersed to present checks to eight Charlotte-based organizations and interact more closely with the people working so hard to help our region.