Jaguars’ Malik Jackson hosts foundation fundraiser at 3 Palms Grille

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Jacksonville Jaguars defensive lineman Malik Jackson hosted teammates, friends and community members at 3 Palms Grille in Ponte Vedra June 15 for “A Night of Giving,” the first annual fundraiser for his foundation, Malik’s Gifts.

The event served as an opportunity for Jackson to introduce his nonprofit organization to the Greater Jacksonville community. The defensive lineman arrived in Jacksonville in 2016 after playing for the Denver Broncos from 2012 to 2015.

“I’ve been doing a few things for a while, and I wanted to be able to let people know what I’ve been able to contribute,” said Jackson, whose foundation benefits at-risk children, military children and families, animal rescue missions and family emergency assistance. “To be able to have an event like this that brings people together that are like minded and wanting to help the same things is just a blessing.”

Event attendees enjoyed live music from The Band Be Easy, food, drinks, a live auction and remarks by Jackson. Malik’s Gifts’ Development Director Rodney Smith and various community members also spoke about the foundation, including Paul Martinez of the Boys & Girls Club of Northeast Florida and Denise Deisler of the Jacksonville Humane Society.

Attendees enjoyed the opportunity to engage with Jaguars Paul Posluszny and Mychal Rivera. First Coast News Sports Director Chris Porter emceed the event.

Within a year of Jackson arriving in Jacksonville, Malik’s Gifts has raised more than $80,000 for local organizations addressing the issues pertinent to the foundation.

“It’s all about helping the community,” said Jackson. “It’s a blessing to be able to have you guys come out for this wonderful cause.”