(S28) PT 5 - Helping Out

[nunccoepi]

Backstone hasn't really had a charity of his own that he has started like many other professional athletes (although he's continually told by his attorney that it would be advantageous for him for tax purposes to start some kind of foundation). Nevertheless, there are some initiatives and causes that are close to his oversized heart. For example, it's no secret that Blackstone was one of the first openly Muslim players in the ISFL (the second to be exact). He continues to practice and attend mosque when he can, so he likes to give back to his Muslim communities, both in Denver where he currently lives, and back home in Dearborn, MI, where he grew up. Because he can, this support often looks like monetary donations (he's one of the wealthiest Muslims in the country by this point), but he tries to make a conscious effort to support his faith communities with his time and efforts as well. He knows that in this way he can be an inspiration for others, and this makes a big difference for the children and young adults as well. Of course, his large frame comes in handy often when they are looking for some help with the manual labor--and they often are!