Kaimon Rucker Steps Up After Hurricane Helene Damage

North Carolina’s Kaimon Rucker has been turning heads this season with his standout performance on the field. While the defensive end’s athletic abilities have been the main topic of conversation, he’s now gaining a new kind of recognition for his volunteer work off the field.

In October, Rucker pledged to make a $10,000 donation to the MANNA FoodBank in Asheville, N.C., in response to the damage that Hurricane Helene inflicted upon the area. 

“For me, it was heartbreaking to see towns and places that people cherished so much now suffering,” said Rucker. “And I thought to myself, why not use my platform from the NIL I earn here to give back to the people who truly need it?”

Rucker has parternships with UNC Threads, NIL Store and Old Well Management, YardBarker reports. However, his work with the North Carolina collective, “Heels4Life,” is making Rucker’s pledge even more meaningful.

An even BIGGER impact

North Carolina athletic department corporate partners Wells Fargo and Food Lion Feeds even pledged to match Rucker’s donation. Wells Fargo is donating $10,000 in funds, and Lion Feeds is donating $10,000 in meals to the MANNA FoodBank.

Each of the organizations even shared their thoughts on joining Rucker’s efforts. 

“We can do more good for those in need when we work together,” said Rod Banks, Philanthropy and Community Impact at Wells Fargo. “Wells Fargo is excited to join Kaimon Rucker’s initiative to support MANNA FoodBank to show the power of collective action and to help bring continued meals to those impacted by the hurricane.” 

While Banks noted the power of working together, David Hardee, Community Relations Specialist of Food Lion, emphasized their strong commitment to supporting your communities.

“At Food Lion, we care for the towns and cities we serve because we know our neighbors count on us every day,” Hardee shared. “Part of demonstrating care is lending a hand to support our communities during times of need. We are committed to partnering with Kaimon and joining his efforts to support MANNA FoodBank’s rebuilding and recovery after the hurricane.”

“Food Lion Feeds and Wells Fargo having the ability to match my donation shows the great character of these businesses,” Rucker stated. “This partnership to give back to the people and the area is a tremendous help.”

A true role model

Rucker was under no obligation to donate to the food bank; however, he felt it was the right thing to do.

Hurricane Helene caused immense damage to the eastern part of the country. Over 300 lives were taken by the violent floods and wind that swept states like the Carolinas, Florida, and Georgia. 

Hurricane damage affected approximately 200,000 homes, leaving many individuals grappling with financial difficulties and struggling to find shelter.

“My thoughts and prayers are with not only the people of Western North Carolina but also the entire towns that have been affected by Hurricane Helene,” said Rucker. “This is just a small drop in a big pond of support for everyone, but we are praying for you, and we are still supporting you as you build back from what the hurricane took from all of you,” NIL Daily on SI reports.

Rucker is currently a semi-finalist for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award. Who knows what other volunteer efforts Rucker will participate in before he graduates?

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated by the activities players participate in off the football field. Growing up in New Jersey, she is a New York Giants fan and attends Rutgers University, pursuing a career in Journalism and Media Studies. She writes for FirstRoundMock.com covering anticipated draft picks and their acts of volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and other interests that shape these individuals.