Stephen Tullochstarted his career in football at North Carolina State University. He was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft and is currently a linebacker for the Detroit Lions. Throughout the years, this star athlete has won numerous awards including the 2012 Detroit Broadcasters Media Good Guy Award and the 2012 Robert Porche Man Of The Year Award.
In 2009 Tulloch, aka #55, foundedThe Stephen Tulloch Foundation in order to assist underprivileged youth. The organization is committed to supplying young people with the essentials to build self-esteem, establish goals and unlock potential. Some of their projects include hosting free football camps in both Miami and Detroit for over 500 kids, partnering with Happy’s Coats for Kids to hand out 4000 coats to children in the Metro Detroit area and hosting an essay contest for high school students at the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy.
Interview Conducted Via Email By: Giacinta Pace
Q: What is your cause?
Stephen: The Stephen Tulloch Foundation supports those that have had hardships, whether it be a single mother, sick child or family affected by cancer or someone that is in need of medical help. The Foundation has helped and encouraged thousands in the Metro Detroit, Tennessee and Miami areas [by] taking 55 families and people that have been affected by cancer to every Detroit Lions home game [and] providing 55 homeless teens with dental and teeth cleanings each year. We have [also] adopted over 100 families in Metro Detroitthat have been affected by cancer for the holidays, giving them toys, clothing and food.
Q: Why is this charity important to you?
Stephen: My mother, Mercedes Tulloch, has inspired me to start my [own] charity and be actively involved. She has worked 2 and 3 jobs her entire life to help me and give back, even when we didn't have anything. I have been blessed to be in the NFL and I feel that now that I am able, it's important for me to continue to give back and help whenever possible.