The NFL playoffs are kicking off this weekend, and while the Kansas City Chiefs have earned a well-deserved bye week after clinching the No. 1 overall seed in the AFC, star tight end Travis Kelce is still making a profound impact off the field.

A few weeks ago, the NFL revealed the Walter Payton Man of the Year nominees, and Kelce was selected to represent the Chiefs organization. This is an immense honor, as it is regarded as the most prestigious award a player can receive.

The recognition focuses on a player’s off-the-field contributions-whether through spreading kindness, raising awareness, contributing to charitable causes, or launching their own foundations to help those in need.

Kelce has consistently been a pillar of this role in the Kansas City community.

On Wednesday, the NFL further congratulated Kelce by announcing that he won the 2024 Nationwide Charity Challenge. The initiative allows fans to vote for their favorite Walter Payton Man of the Year nominees, with the winner receiving additional donations for their selected charity.

Kelce’s foundation, “87 & Running,” will receive a generous $35,000 from Nationwide for winning the challenge.

“Nationwide created the Charity Challenge to rally fans around their favorite Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominees and give players a chance to earn additional donations for their chosen charities,” said Ramon Jones, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for Nationwide.

Congratulations to @tkelce on winning the 2024 Nationwide Charity Challenge!

In recognition of Kelce’s win, @Nationwide has awarded a $35,000 donation to Kelce’s foundation, 87 & Running.

#WPMOYpic.twitter.com/ONUWgfsbXh — NFL (@NFL) January 8, 2025 “87 & Running” is a nonprofit organization founded by Travis Kelce to help disadvantaged youth succeed by providing them with resources they might not otherwise have access to.

The organization focuses on education, athletics, business, and the arts, while also prioritizing student-athlete well-being.

Kelce’s impact goes far beyond the football field.

While he is an exceptional player and much of the attention surrounding him centers on his football achievements with the Chiefs, his off-field successes are equally significant.

Through his foundation, Kelce is making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.

Along with the other 31 nominees, Kelce will have the opportunity to be selected as the Walter Payton Man of the Year at the NFL Honors in a few weeks.