Von Miller hosted a Celebrity Go-Kart Grand Prix at The Track at Centennial on Monday in order to raise money for his foundation Von's Vision. The event raised roughly $40,000 dollars for his foundation, which aims to provide eyewear for students who otherwise may not have been able to afford them.
The cause of the foundation hits home for Miller who struggled with his vision as a child. His stylish specs have become a staple for the linebacker.
"The primary focus of my foundation is to get glasses on kids heads," says Miller. "It's something that I struggled with since like the second grade, as long as I can remember. And that's the primary focus – identifying with all of those students and kids that all they need is a pair of glasses and they'll be straight."
The foundation focuses on an issue that may be overlooked but is definitely prevalent, especially in underprivileged communities.
"Seventy-five percent of students in the classroom that have eye problems don't even know they have them," says Miller. "So, getting eye exams and taking care of that just evens the playing field. It's a great feeling."
The event brought out a number of Miller's teammates, some of whom buckled up and competed in a few laps around the track. David Bruton Jr. was there to support Von's vision, who's own foundation Bruton's Books practically goes hand-and-hand with it's efforts.
ILB Von Miller's foundation, Von's Vision hosted a celebrity go-kart event on Monday to raise funds.
Von Miller poses with one of the go-kart teams.
Steven Johnson poses with his go-kart team.
Rookie Shane Ray poses with his go-kart team.
Rookie Danny Mason signs autographs for fans.
Kenny Anunike gets his helmet on before stepping on the track.
Von Miller gets ready to take off.
"It's a great cause," said Bruton. "Von's Vision is something that's near and dear to me. It feels like it runs parallel with my foundation as well, Bruton's Books. You know, as a kid, I wore glasses and I still wear glasses today."
While the foundation does have a serious mission, the event allowed for fans and players to have some friendly competition as well. G Ben Garland felt like his military background would give him a leg up and ILB Steven Johnson didn't necessarily disagree that he may have an advantage.
"To tell you the truth, I heard the heavier you are the better it is coming down the hills," said Johnson.
"It's just a typical offseason day – here with all of my buddies, all of my teammates," said Miller. "You know, we do stuff like this all the time. But, whenever it's for a good cause, whenever it's for my foundation, it's always a little bit more special."
