Courage. Compassion. Commitment.
The Ed Block Courage Award Foundation, Inc. is dedicated to supporting the well-being of abused, neglected and at-risk children throughout our Courage House National Support Network for Kids. Through our partnership with the National Football League (NFL), the Foundation cultivates awareness at each Courage House and helps to raise funds for their programs and initiatives.
Each of the 27 partnered facilities are provided with monetary and gift-in-kind donations along with various needed services to help advance their mission from the Ed Block Courage Award Foundation. Over the past five years, we have donated over $200,000 and more than $20,000 in memorabilia to our community partners.
Who We Are
The Ed Block Courage Award Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 1978 by founder, Sam Lamantia, in cooperation with the Baltimore Colts and Maryland-based children’s residential treatment center, St. Vincent’s Villa.
In 1984, the NFL and the Professional Football Athletic Trainer Society ( PFATS) began collaborating with the Foundation matching teams across the country with child abuse and/or at-risk youth facilities, known as Courage Houses, in their respective regions. The goal is to create and maintain a support network assisting with the long-term growth of each Courage House and the well-being of the children.
ED BLOCK COURAGE AWARDS
Throughout the year the Foundation hosts several fundraisers including the prestigious Ed Block Courage Awards. One player from each NFL team is voted by their teammates to be honored for their courage and inspiration throughout the season. The recipients stand as role models for their ability to overcome adversity while also serving their respective communities.
Those recipients then travel to Baltimore, MD to be honored and presented with the most unique trophy in all of sports during our ceremonies. They participate in local community outreach programs by visiting the abused, neglected and at-risk youth of the Baltimore Ravens Courage House, St. Vincent’s Villa.
Featured Media
Ed Block CourageCast – Episode 14
On this Episode: Dave Steinwedel and Wally Williams are joined by their new co-host Dwayne Brooks as they welcome in 1993 Ed Block Courage Award Recipient John “Pops” Davis for […]
2022 Community Outreach
The 2021 Ed Block Courage Award Recipients visited the Baltimore Ravens Courage House, St. Vincent’s Villa for a day of fun and activities with the children of the residential treatment […]
Courage Award Spotlight: Greg Olsen
EARLY CAREER Greg Olsen is widely considered as one of the greatest tight ends of his generation. His football career launched into recognition at Wayne Hill High School in […]
Support Our Mission
The Ed Block Courage Award Foundation is truly grateful for all of the support that we receive. If you would like to help us with our mission, please consider making a donation.
Upcoming Events & Online Auctions
Ed Block Celebration Cocktail Party
April 1
On April 1, 2023, Sponsors can celebrate with the Courage Award Recipients and other NFL guests during our Ed Block Celebration Cocktail Party at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel located on the […]
learn moreVIP Sponsor Brunch
April 2
On April 2, 2023, Sponsors can enjoy an intimate brunch with the Courage Award Recipients and other NFL guests during our VIP Sponsor Brunch at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel located on the […]
learn more
