RISE joined a variety of organizations Wednesday, Jan. 31, in Minnesota for the American Heroes National Launch & Youth Football Celebration leading up to SuperBowl LII and uniting youth and law enforcement. The Jack Brewer Foundation (JBF Worldwide), in partnership with the NFL, Minnesota Vikings, National Association of Police Athletic/Activities Leagues (NPAL), Ross Initiative in Sports for Equality (RISE) and The Sanneh Foundation launched the national program uniting youth and police through the power of sports and education. The event was at the West St. Paul Regional Athletic Center. The American Heroes Program is an initiative founded by NPAL Ambassador/Spokesperson and former NFL player Jack Brewer that is part of JBF Worldwide’s Trust2Protect campaign, which aims to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve. The program will promote empowerment and engagement, providing youth the opportunity to gain leadership and football skills while discussing community challenges and potential solutions to them with local leaders and law enforcement. Wednesday’s launch featured invited youth from the Twin Cities area, local police officers, current and former NFL players and community leaders. Youth, law enforcement and professional athletes participated together in football drills facilitated by the Vikings and educational programming developed and led by RISE on the topics of teamwork, trust and community building. They then participated in a group discussion to identify actionable steps that can be taken to strengthen and unify their community.