DENVER -- As 
“Are you a football player?” asked a little boy staring up at the veteran Broncos safety.
“Sometimes,” replied a smiling Dawkins.
Football fans know Dawkins as one of the NFL’s great safeties. On Sundays, you can expect to see Dawkins storm out of the tunnel and play a hard-hitting brand of football with more passion and desire than just about anyone.
But when Thanksgiving rolls around, you can expect to see the star safety out in the community playing a different role, standing next to a big check, doing his best to give back.
For the third straight year, Dawkins teamed up with King Soopers and Meadow Gold Dairies to provide Thanksgiving dinners to families throughout Colorado served by the Salvation Army.
“We really appreciate this partnership in helping us to help others,” Lt. Col. Daniel Starrett, Intermountain Divisional Commander said. “This statewide initiative with our Corps will aid hundreds of families that have come to us for help this holiday season.”
At the Red Shield Community Center Tuesday, Dawkins presented a check for $11,000 to the Salvation Army, a donation that will provide meals for hundreds of families -- complete with turkey, homestyle stuffing, mashed potatoes, turkey gravy, cranberry relish, rolls and pumpkin pie.
“I don’t give from an obligation standpoint,” Dawkins said. “I give because it makes me feel good to do it and I’ve been blessed with a lot. To be able to give to others is a blessing in itself.”
Dawkins has helped feed needy families on Thanksgiving since his days in Philadelphia as a member of the Eagles and his charitable tradition has continued to grow in Denver, where he has formed proud partnerships to aid his efforts.
“We are happy to support Brian Dawkins and his efforts to make sure more families can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner together,” said Kelli McGannon, director of public affairs for King Soopers.
“We salute Brian’s leadership and we are proud to partner with him to support Salvation Army’s great work in our communities,” said Scott Barnard, general sales manager for Meadow Gold Dairy.
After presenting the donation, Dawkins stuck around to speak with the large group of children in attendance and signed autographs, wrapping up another memorable night in the community for the thankful safety.
“It blew me back as I walking into the door to know that we’re able to come together and bless that many households,” Dawkins said. “It’s a humbling experience. The Lord has blessed me tremendously.”
