Since the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) authorized college athletes to be able to make money off their name, image, and likeness (commonly known as NIL), some have used their platform to profit for themselves as an amateur, but others have used the rule change to make lasting impacts in the community. Before and after Hurricane Ian made landfall, players such as Dillan Gibbons, a graduate student offensive lineman at Florida State University was one of those players looking to make a lasting impact.
Gibbons founded Big Man Big Heart, Inc. in August of 2021. His intention is to “promote NCAA college athletes’ use of their NIL to do good & promote unity, positivity & kindness in their community and beyond,” and looks to give back to the community by “organizing events for underprivileged and at-risk children and young adults with special needs.”
The charity itself has already raised over $300,000.
However, now the “Big Man” is looking to help the state of Florida in a time of need.
Alongside the help of the starting quarterback, Jordan Travis, and defensive lineman Malakai Menzer (all three are south Florida natives), the FSU teammates are looking to raise $200,000 to support those in need following the devastation left by Hurricane Ian. 100% of the funds will go to those affected in southwest Florida.
At the time of writing, nearly $19k has been contributed to the fund.
This weekend in Tallahassee, the ‘Noles are squaring off against Wake Forest in a Top-25 matchup. If you are in the state capital and are looking to donate in-person, the Big Man Big Heart tailgate tent will be located on the Legacy Walk – tent 2 before the game.
If you are looking to donate online, you can find the website here:
