National Football League

Bullying fight brings out the stars

Published Oct. 1, 2013 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

NFL players and former Olympians from across the country gathered to tackle the epidemic of bullying at the Be In The Know About Bullying launch event in Las Vegas last weekend.

Be In The Know About Bullying is an organization founded by former Minnesota Vikings running back Sean James, who spent the past decade helping children nation-wide through his philanthropic organization, Sean James Students Athletes (SJSA).

His latest endeavor has taken his passion for helping our country’s youth to a whole new level.

Be In The Know About Bullying is a unique and innovative program aimed at addressing the issue surrounding bullying amongst today’s youth.

Through a hybrid of educational programming and ambassadorships of professional athletes like NFL players, UFC fighters, and Olympians, Be In The Know is creating a new ideal for our children of what it means to lead, exhibit strength, character, and to “be better.”

Saturday night, Be In The Know teamed with Hyde and SBE for its launch event at the Bellagio Hotel.

The incredible backdrop of neon lights, the Eiffel Tower, and the Bellagio fountains set the stage for an unbelievable show of support for an incredible cause.

Current and former NFL players in attendance included Bernard Berrian, Jonas Jennings, Glenn Pakulak and myself among others.

Also showing support were Kevin Hooks, CEO of the Urban League in Las Vegas, Olympians Katura Horton-Perinchief and Garrett Klugh as well as reality TV stars Mercedes “MJ” Javid and Golnesa “GG” Gharachedaghi of the Shahs of Sunset.

On the red carpet the ambassadors posed while holding up T-shrits donning the Don't Be A Bully Be A Buddy logo while the all attendees watched a powerful video documenting the tragic consequences of bullying.

James spoke about why he holds this issue so near and dear to his heart, and made a passionate declaration about a curable epidemic; bullying is a disease that we can cure if we join together and encourage our children through education, love, compassion and mentorship.

James presented me with the first “Game Changer of the Year” award, thoughtfully named by James to capture the spirit of an individual who “changes the game by standing up in order to change the rules when that person sees that they do not benefit the entire team.”

I was honored.

As an advocate for children, James is working to get the Be In The Know About Bullying curriculum adopted by schools and community-based programs all over the country. This weekend’s launch was Be In The Know’s coming-out party for the West Coast.

James has expanded the reach of his anti-bullying message from coast to coast. To find out more about the Be In The Know About Bullying organization, information about purchasing curriculum, and the link to donate please visit the Be In The Know About Bullying website at www.knowaboutbullying.com.