When it was reported that the Trump administration considered 180,000 American Covid deaths “just a statistic,” Firstenberg knew she had to translate that number to a visual human toll. “I don’t just want to create art-I want to create art that changes society.” “I wouldn’t presume myself an activist per se, but I’m an artist with an activist soul,” says the Bethesda mixed-media specialist, who has created striking installations with an eye for honoring mass-shooting victims and destigmatizing drug addiction. Suzanne Brennan Firstenberg is inspired by “empathy in all forms.” I am grateful for Jonathan’s continued effort to help us build stellar community supports where youth and families in dire circumstances can truly thrive.” Debby Shore, founder and executive director, Sasha Bruce Youthworkīack to Top Suzanne Brennan Firstenberg Social-practice artist Photograph by Jonathan Thorpe. Jon has a wonderful partner in his wife, Hannah, and together they have made sure they are involved in the most impactful ways. Jon’s involvement in Sasha Bruce has brought hope to our young clients as he has generously shared his own journey. He has ensured that youth are provided with basic good care and opportunities to expand their learning. “Jonathan Allen’s help has translated into enhancements to our programs and bolstered our mission. Showing the kids that it is possible is my biggest message.” You can have a successful life in whatever field you pursue. I’m not saying that just because I play in the NFL. Says Allen: “I feel like I’m an example of being able to come out of the other side. “We would talk about different issues that I went through or the kids went through,” he says, “like how to deal with anger, stress.” The fundamental lesson he hopes to impart: “This situation doesn’t define you.” During the 2020 season, unable to visit due to Covid, he Zoomed with the kids every Thursday. Perhaps most important: Allen himself, a regular presence at Sasha Bruce House. When Covid hit, Jonathan and Hannah contributed $45,000 to Sasha Bruce’s rapid-response fund. As a two-time Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee, Allen helped raise funds to expand Sasha Bruce’s winter survival services and partnered with sponsors such as Bombas to provide essential cold-weather gear. The couple “adopted” families and kids over countless holidays, providing free meals and gifts. At Sasha Bruce House in Northeast DC, they created the Innovation Lounge-a tech-and-entertainment center outfitted with laptops, study spaces, and gaming systems. Later, Allen’s Alabama coach taught him a lifelong lesson: “The best thing you can ever do is what you do for somebody else,” says Allen.Īllen and his wife, Hannah, have pledged $3 million to area charities over the course of his WFT playing career. Allen is familiar with the challenges-he and his brother spent time in foster care before being reunited with their father. The nonprofit, founded in 1974, runs DC’s only 24-hour homeless shelter for minors and is dedicated to helping young people find safe homes, mental-health services, and educational or career opportunities. Three years ago, the football star joined forces with Sasha Bruce Youthwork. Jonathan Allen isn’t just a defensive tackle for the Washington Football Team-he’s also tackling issues of youth homelessness. Jonathan Allen Defensive tackle, Washington Football Team Photograph by Jeff Elkins
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