From a $1 million Detroit donation to a $1.5 million UGA gift: How Matthew and Kelly Stafford built a lasting charitable legacy
Much of their charitable work has a strong connection to Detroit, where Matthew played for the Lions for 12 seasons. Van Elslander Foundation and the Clarence and Jack Himmel Foundation each provided $1 million toward the expansion. More than 1,000 other donors also contributed to the project. The center was dedicated on April 1, 2024. SAY Detroit said the new space expanded the Play Center by nearly 15,000 square feet and allowed it to offer more academic and enrichment programs for hundreds of Detroit young people between the ages of 8 and 18. In 2020, the couple committed $1.5 million to the university.
SAY Detroit later reported that the Staffords, the A.A.
The University of Georgia said the gift supported several areas, including a new social justice program within UGA Athletics. Matthew and Kelly Stafford have used their success in the NFL to support education, youth programs and community causes. Their giving has also reached the University of Georgia, where both have personal ties. Together, their documented donations include millions of dollars toward education, youth development and social justice programs. The project moved forward with support from other donors as well. The facility also includes learning labs and a black box theater. Their charitable work has also included the University of Georgia, where Matthew played football and Kelly was a cheerleader.