#USA #Ray Lewis #Community Event #Ray of Hope #Lakeland, Florida

Celebrating Love and Community: Ray Lewis' 50th Birthday Event

On May 24, 2025, NFL Hall of Famer Ray Lewis will return to his roots in Polk County, Florida, to host a remarkable event marking his 50th birthday—a free community celebration titled "52 Ways of Love." This extraordinary gathering promises not just a day of festivities, but a heartfelt initiative aimed at promoting mental health awareness, education, and collective healing among families and individuals.

Partnering with the Ray of Hope Foundation, Lewis invites over 3,000 attendees to Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium for a day filled with engaging activities and discussions on mental wellness. The event is designed to be family-friendly, focusing on resilience and the importance of community support. Attendees can expect interactive zones for youth, including mindfulness workshops and health screenings, alongside traditional outdoor games like tug-of-war and three-legged races.

Ray Lewis emphasizes that this occasion is about more than just celebrating his milestone birthday; it's about giving back to the community that shaped him. He shared his motivation, noting, "This isn't just about a birthday; it's about pouring love back into the place that gave me everything. It's about showing our kids they matter—and that healing is possible when we come together as one family, one purpose."

The tragic loss of his son has spurred Lewis to take a stand against the stigma surrounding mental health, making this event a personal mission for him. His aim is to foster conversations around these crucial topics within the community to inspire hope and resilience.

Special Guests: NFL Legends Unite

Joining Lewis in this noble cause will be an impressive lineup of fellow NFL stars from Polk County, including Shannon Baker, Ahmad Black, Desmond Clark, Wayne Gandy, Rodney Gunter, Maurkice Pouncey, Mike Pouncey, and Chris Rainey. These legends will engage with participants, sharing their stories while further emphasizing the importance of mental health and community unity.

The Ray of Hope Foundation: Empowering Lives

The Ray of Hope Foundation, which Lewis established, primarily targets at-risk youth and families, offering support through education, mental health resources, mentorship, and community-driven engagement. Their mission is to create avenues for personal development through love and compassion.

Local businesses, sponsors, and media partners are warmly welcomed to be part of this impactful day. Opportunities are available for branded booths, volunteer positions, and in-kind contributions, making it a chance for the community to rally together in support of a vital cause.

For those interested in press credentials, sponsorship opportunities, or interviews with Ray Lewis, they can reach out to Dr. Debra L. Wright, Director of the Ray of Hope Foundation.

Conclusion

The "52 Ways of Love" community celebration promises to be a significant event that brings together the Polk County community for a day of fun, learning, and conversation around the essential theme of mental wellness. As Ray Lewis celebrates his 50th birthday, he invites everyone to join him in making a difference, reminding us all that love and support are the keys to overcoming life’s challenges.

For more information about the Ray of Hope Foundation and the event, visit www.rayofhope.foundation.