Here’s something you’ll probably not see covered in mainstream sports media outlets. Aaron Rodgers was honored by the North Valley Community Foundation (NVCF) Gala as their “Philanthropist of the Year.”
The enigmatic Super Bowl champion was honored for his efforts in donating millions of dollars to wildfire disasters.
“I am just trying to do my best to help out,” he said in a video response to winning the award. “I have been really blessed in this life, and my goal is just to give back.”
Aaron Rodgers’ philanthropy in the past year reflects his ongoing commitment to giving back, particularly to his home state of California.
“This award means a lot to me, but I share it with all of you as well, and my beloved Butte County and Chico, California, always near and dear to my heart,” he said.
Class Act: The legendary Aaron Rodgers was named Philanthropist of the Year in California:
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) March 19, 2025
“I am just trying to do my best to help out… I have been really blessed in this life & my goal is just to give back.”
Rodgers is a role model on and off the field.
👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/us71xh2VM5
Related: Aaron Rodgers Is Retiring From The Jets, NFL Insider Alleges
Aaron Rodgers Honored For Philanthropy
While the award was meant to highlight Rodgers’ philanthropy this past year, he has actually been donating to disaster relief for many years and has contributed millions to support these causes.
Rodgers made a notable $1 million contribution in 2021 to aid 80 small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic through the Aaron Rodgers Small-Business COVID-19 Fund at NVCF.
The current NFL free agent also established channels like the Aaron Rodgers Foundation, which focuses on youth initiatives, and partnerships with organizations like the NVCF.
For instance, Rodgers’ past work with NVCF includes a $1 million donation in 2018 for Camp Fire recovery. This spurred over $3 million more with corporate matches from State Farm and Walmart.
That same year, Rodgers donated another $1 million to victims of wildfires in the Northern California area.
Related: Aaron Rodgers Makes Sad Admission – This Could Be The End
Fans Point Out That The Media Hate
Fans were quick to note that Rodgers receives a lot more hate from the media than he deserves, especially given his philanthropic efforts.
“He doesn’t deserve all the hate he gets,” one fan commented.
“This should be shared more!” another suggested. “What a guy.”
Rodgers has been disliked ever since his adamant opposition to the NFL’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate. He received backlash because of the way he hedged on whether or not he complied. As if it was the sports media’s business.
As it stands right now, Rodgers is a free agent for the first time in his 20-year NFL career. This comes after his official release from the New York Jets earlier this month.
Will he play for another team in 2025? Or will Rodgers, the four-time league MVP, retire at the age of 41? Only time will tell.
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