Derrick Johnson | Founder
Derrick Johnson, the Kansas City Chiefs’ all-time leading tackler, has carried his drive from the field into philanthropy. In this KC Cares interview, he shares how his Defend the Dream Foundation transforms school libraries in low-income communities, giving kids access to age-appropriate books and bright, inviting spaces to read. He also discusses his new children’s book, Super DJ Saves Field Day, co-written with his wife, which encourages kids to discover their inner strength and values.
What Nonprofit Questions are Answered?
-
What is the Defend the Dream Foundation?
-
A nonprofit founded by Derrick Johnson focused on improving literacy and learning environments for children in low-income schools.
-
-
How does Defend the Dream support education?
-
By refurbishing libraries and donating thousands of age-appropriate books to Title I elementary schools.
-
-
Why is literacy so important to Derrick Johnson’s mission?
-
Inspired by his mother, a lifelong teacher, Johnson believes education is the key to opportunity and confidence.
-
-
What is Derrick Johnson’s children’s book about?
-
Super DJ Saves Field Day teaches kids to face fears, work hard, and find their own superpowers.
-
-
How can people support Defend the Dream?
-
Visit defendthedream.org to donate, volunteer, or partner in upcoming library projects.
-
Find us on
Facebook:@ Kccaresradio
Twitter: @kccaresradio
Instagram: @Kccaresonline
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Also available on
Itunes || Spotify || Stitcher || Soundcloud || Youtube
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
KC Cares, Kansas City’s nonprofit voice, tells the stories of Kansas City nonprofits and connects them with the community.
Produced by Charitable Communications
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
In partnership with:
Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation
Take risks. Own success. Be Uncommon.
TW: @kauffmanfdn FB: @kauffmanfdn IG: @kauffmanfdn
Transcript:
Previous Episodes!
Guadalupe Centers: A Century of Impact on Kansas City’s Latino Community
Guadalupe Centers, Kansas City’s historic Latino-focused nonprofit, celebrates 100+ years of community service. CEO Beto Lopez discusses its education initiatives, including a thriving charter school system, and its innovative programs addressing housing and senior needs.
Jamie Boyle on Welcome House’s New Facility & Sobriety with Dignity
Welcome House, led by CEO Jamie Boyle, provides a unique recovery model emphasizing accountability and dignity. With its newly opened state-of-the-art facility, Welcome House is transforming lives in Kansas City by offering a supportive community and practical steps toward long-term sobriety.
Innovative Partnership Between Prospect KC and Nourish KC Fights Hunger
Prospect KC and Nourish KC have united to tackle hunger in Kansas City through innovative food redistribution and culinary training programs. This dynamic partnership combines forces to reduce food waste, provide nutritious meals, and create job opportunities for those facing employment barriers.
