This weekend, the National Football League celebrates “My Cause, My Cleats” – an annual game in which players showcase a social cause close to their hearts. Participants will don customized cleats representing their chosen organizations, which are then donated to the NFL Auction and sold. All proceeds from the sale are directly donated to the respective charities selected by the players.

This year, American Humane is proud to have Kenyan Drake, a running back for the Baltimore Ravens, playing in honor of Pups4Patriots!

Kenyan is a dedicated supporter of Pups4Patriots, even hosting a veteran appreciation event earlier this year with teammate Ronnie Stanley in Owing Mills, Maryland. The pair hold a special place in their hearts for those who previously or are currently serving in our military, as Stanley’s dad is a military veteran and Drake’s sister is currently serving.

“This is literally the least I can do, just be able to use my platform to promote positivity in any realm, especially when it comes to veterans and the ultimate sacrifice they were able to make, for us to be able to do things like this. It definitely hits home for me to be able to do as much as I can because of the service they provide for our country, for us to be free.”

– Kenyan Drake

Pups4Patriots is committed to matching veterans with exceptionally trained service dogs who can well understand their unique individual needs, at no cost to the veteran. Research shows that a specially trained service dog can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels, easing social reintegration and providing comfort for affected veterans.

American Humane could not be more grateful to Kenyan for his continued support for Pups4Patriots and the attention he brings to our important work.

You can watch the Baltimore Ravens play their “My Cause, My Cleats” game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, December 4 at 1:00 p.m. EST on CBS.

Learn more about American Humane’s Pups4Patriots program here.