Join the Team - Former blocker still has power

		Keyshawn Johnson Wide Receiver Years in NFL: 11
Focus: Youth and Education All-Star Role: Key's Kids with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dallas Supporting Roles: Keyshawn Johnson Education Fund, Young Mentors of America, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Make-A-Wish, United Cerebral Palsy, Young Vote Initiative of America, Boys & Girls Clubs, Brotherhood Crusade, and Starlight Foundation


	Carolina Panthers

Former blocker still has power

In 2006, Carolina Panthers tackle Todd Fordham decided he no longer wated to play professional football. But just because he hung up his cleats didn't mean he gave up his community work off the field.

Mike Craft
Panthers.com

Former Carolina Panthers tackle Todd Fordham is a math expert of sorts, well versed in the power of one.

"If you can affect one life and that life affects one life and you keep multiplying that up, then eventually you affect the community," Fordham said.

That's why after retiring following the 2006 season, the veteran of 10 NFL seasons, including three in a Carolina uniform, hasn't stopped working with local charitable organizations despite living in Jacksonville, FL.

He recently formed a partnership with Power Cross, an organization created by Jeff and Natalie Storment from Statesville, NC. The two-year old program is aimed at helping at risk boys build self esteem and in turn build a better future.

"We started with our son, TJ (Tyler Jeffrey) and five of his friends having a bible study," said Storment of the program's humble beginnings.

Now, Power Cross provides after school mentoring and tutoring for as many as 35 boys a week. They also offer athletic programs and daily meals.

During the Panthers Summer School, Fordham hosted Storment and more than two dozen kids from the organization at a practice. While there, the children got a chance to meet several players, including defensive end Julius Peppers, quarterback Jake Delhomme and wide receiver Steve Smith.

Fordham has not only adopted the program but he also provides financial support through his foundation.

"He's just a one in a million type guy," Storment said about Fordham. "We operate out of our house. Kitchen space is a major problem. We have Bible study in the living room. We would like to build a facility to meet more than once or twice week."

"It's been a huge success," Fordham said. "They're grabbing back hope that they can excel in life and reach a dream."

Volunteering just 60 minutes of your time in the coming year can make a difference in your community