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 monetary and 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 over $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 PFATS (Professional Football Athletic Trainer Society) began collaborating with the Foundation partnering teams across the country with child abuse and/or at-risk youth facilities (known as Courage Houses) in their 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 travel to Baltimore to be honored and presented with the most unique trophy in all of sports during our ceremonies. They participate in local community outreach programs, visiting the abused, neglected, and at-risk youth of the Baltimore Ravens Courage House, St. Vincent’s Villa.
Featured Media
Ed Block CourageCast Ep. 79 Dance Off!
On this podcast: Dave Steinwedel, Former NFL O-Lineman and Ed Block Recipient Wally Williams, Former Athletic Trainer Duane Brooks and Former NFL D-Lineman Duane Clemons talk the Ravens loss and […]
Building Block Web Series Ep. 66: Dalton Wagner
We sit down with 2024 Las Vegas Raiders recipient Dalton Wagner. Dalton tells us what it means to him to have received the Ed Block Courage Award along with some […]
Building Block Web Series Ep. 65: JK Dobbins
We sit down with 2024 Los Angeles Chargers recipient JK Dobbins. JK tells us what it means to him to have received the Ed Block Courage Award along with some […]
Support Our Mission
The Ed Block Courage Award Foundation is truly grateful for all of the support we get. If d like to help us with our mission, please consider a donation.
Upcoming Events & Online Auctions
Courage Awards Block Party
March 8 @ 6:00 pm
Guests will be joined by the Courage Award recipients and other esteemed NFL guests for a family-friendly night of fun at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel. The event includes a brief […]
learn moreCourage Awards VIP Sponsor Brunch
March 9 @ 9:30 am
Select guests will be invited to an exclusive brunch with spread provided by award winning chef, Zack Trabbold of Evolved Hospitality and “The Local.” Each sponsor will be provided seating […]
learn more
