Founder/Executive Director Silverback Foundation & Former NFL Player

Joseph Robert Redmond is a former American football running back in the National Football League. He played for the New England Patriots and Oakland Raiders, and won Super Bowl XXXVI as a member of the Patriots over the St. Louis Rams. A Heisman candidate and Doak Walker Finalist, Redmond was drafted in the 3rd round, 76th pick of the NFL draft to the New England Patriots.

          Redmond played his collegiate football career at Arizona State University from 1996-1999, there he finished 3rd in school history in rushing yards and offensive MVP for 3 consecutive years.  Redmond is a former American football running back in the National Football League. He played for the New England Patriots and Oakland Raiders, and won Super Bowl XXXVI as a member of the Patriots over the St. Louis Rams.

          Five years into retirement Redmond’s battled depression and was eventually diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder with Psychosis, Posttraumatic stress disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury, Post-concussion Syndrome, and Chronic Pain Syndrome. The next phase of his life was challenging as J.R. was faced with homelessness, family issues, valuable possession lost due to the diagnosis. Finding treatment soon after allowed him to understand how to improve daily life. 

This foundation roots in the life J.R. experienced prior to treatment and the valuable lessons and accolades he has received after treatment. 

Along with the J. R. Redmond Silverback Foundation, J.R. owns an apparel design and production company that has grown tremendously over the years. Implementing proceeds from his apparel line will tie into the overlying growth of his foundation for many years to come.

Talk Title: 

From the Field to Philanthropy: JR Redmond’s Charitable Journey

Talk Description: United Charitable CEO, Julia Healey, and retired NFL player and social entrepreneur, JR Redmond, share how fiscal sponsorship has allowed The Silverback Foundation to create sustainable change in the Southern California area and how JR’s personal journey has influenced his philanthropy. JR’s personal journey is one of hardship and perseverance as he has overcome struggling with mental health issues, homelessness, and the difficult transition from being an active NFL player to a retired professional athlete. JR’s journey will highlight key takeaways that fellow business owners would be able to apply to their philanthropic pursuits.