Jalen Hurts inspires youth at Birmingham Boys & Girls Club celebration

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts continues to make an impact far beyond the football field, recently serving as a featured speaker during the A.G. Gaston Boys & Girls Club 60th Anniversary Celebration in Birmingham, Alabama.

The event, held in Hoover, Alabama, celebrated six decades of service dedicated to mentoring and supporting Birmingham-area youth. Community leaders, sponsors, and city officials gathered to honor the organization's legacy and its continued mission to provide safe spaces and opportunities for young people across central Alabama.

“What began as a small organization for Birmingham youth has blossomed over 60 years of service,” AG Gaston Boys and Girls Club CEO Andre McFadden said during the celebration.

McFadden credited the organization's longevity to its commitment to after-school programs and youth development initiatives throughout the region.

“Dr. Gaston just wanted to have a place for teenagers to go so they wouldn’t get in trouble,” McFadden explained. “60 years has been a long time but it’s been a great run so far.”

Former club member and current Director Roderick Royal also reflected on the life-changing impact the organization has had on generations of young people in Birmingham.

“My association with the club actually came 51 years ago, and I can’t think of another thing that’s impacted my life this much,” Royal said. “Dr. Gaston, as the kids say, he was the man.”

During the dinner celebration, attendees looked back on the organization's history while also focusing on the future. Hurts participated in a fireside conversation where he discussed the importance of investing in youth and creating positive opportunities for future generations.

View this post on Instagram

The appearance aligns perfectly with Hurts' growing commitment to philanthropy and community outreach through the Jalen Hurts Foundation. Founded on the principles of “service, mentorship, and progression," the foundation focuses on strengthening communities and advancing youth development through mentorship programs and educational resources.

According to the foundation's mission statement, Hurts created the nonprofit out of "overwhelming gratitude to the communities that have generously become a home away from home." The organization aims to provide support systems and positive role models while encouraging young people to pursue their passions and goals.

Hurts has already demonstrated a willingness to use his NFL platform and financial success to create change. Nearly a year ago, the Eagles quarterback donated $200,000 to the Philadelphia School District to help provide 300 air conditioning units to 10 local schools.

Now one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in NFL history, Hurts continues to build a reputation as a leader both on and off the field. His appearance at the AG Gaston Boys & Girls Club anniversary celebration further showcased his dedication to empowering young people and giving back to communities that need support the most.

Eagles QB Jalen Hurts speaking at the A.G. Gaston Boys & Girls Club 60th Anniversary in Birmingham, AL.

📹: Jalen Hurts Foundation pic.twitter.com/KiovmbrUhI— O.J. Spivey (@OJPhilly) May 19, 2026

The fundraising goal for Thursday's celebration was $500,000, and organizers announced during the event that they were nearing that mark thanks to support from sponsors and community leaders.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Jalen Hurts highlights youth impact at Alabama fundraiser