School Daze With Rampage
By Charles Jackson
TORRANCE, Calif. —
Young Danny did not need much time to test his favorite purchase.
With a new pair of skates secured during a Los Angeles Rams-sponsored shopping spree, the youngster was already rolling through the Walmart store, enjoying his gift before the afternoon’s celebration had ended. His excitement captured the spirit of an event that brought smiles, school supplies and some welcome financial relief to more than 50 Southern California children.
The Rams gathered with community partner Call Jacob on Aug. 4 at the Walmart on Normandie Avenue in Torrance. The event took place during a scheduled day off from training camp, but several players chose community service over rest.
Running back Kyren Williams was joined by teammates Josh Wallace, Larrell Murchison, Tim Keenan, Tyler Davis, Desjuan Johnson and Tanner Ingle. Rams cheerleaders, team mascot Rampage, staff members and volunteers also helped children navigate the aisles and make their selections.
Each participating child received a $200 gift card and a limited-edition Rams and
Call Jacob T-shirt. Although preparing for school was the afternoon’s central purpose, the children were allowed to choose from more than notebooks, backpacks and pencils. Clothing, toys, skates and other personal items also found their way into shopping carts.
Approximately 150 guests attended the celebration, which included lunch, music and opportunities for the children to spend time with the players.
The shopping spree marked the third such collaboration between the Rams and Call Jacob. The children were selected through a partnership involving the LAUSD Education Foundation, according to published reports.
For many families, purchasing everything a child needs for a new school year can place considerable pressure on an already limited household budget. The gift cards allowed parents to breathe a little easier while giving the children something equally important: the freedom to select items for themselves.
Williams said community service played an important role in inspiring him when he was young. Now established as one of the Rams’ leading players, he has an opportunity to provide that same encouragement to another generation. “That’s just who I am,” Williams said during the event. “The way I got into this game, the way I was inspired by this game was through community service, and it was through the Rams.”
The day demonstrated that an athlete’s influence can extend well beyond the football field. Children met players they normally see only on television, while the players had an opportunity to hear about their lives, help with their choices and share in their excitement.
By the time the carts reached the checkout lanes, they were filled with practical supplies, special treats and the promise of a better-prepared first day of school.
And somewhere nearby, Danny was already putting his new wheels to work.
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