Davin Joseph is big – six foot three inches, 313 pounds. That’s to be expected for an NFL lineman. 

 His heart is big, too. Davin helped start a program through United Way of Tampa Bay to provide Thanksgiving meals to families in need. In 2008 “Turkey Time with the O-Line” served 600 meals. He participates in programs to help pediatric patients. And Davin’s Dream Team provides home game tickets to charitable groups.

Davin was selected as the player spokesman for United Way of Tampa Bay to highlight the 35-year collaboration between the groups, and to promote the LIVE UNITED message. How does he feel about his role?

“I’ve been in Tampa Bay since 2006 and I’m searching for more ways to make an impact on the community,” he said. “Becoming the United Way of Tampa Bay’s player spokesman has motivated me to get more involved. It’s gotten me grounded and helped me learn where I can make a difference.”

Davin puts a child through his paces.

He helped out in a big way – the only way he knows how – at the recent Hometown Huddle. A collaboration between United Way and the NFL, Hometown Huddle encourages kids to play at least 60 minutes a day. It’s part of United Way’s 10-year goal to increase by one-third the number of youth who are healthy and avoid risky behavior.

Hometown Huddle was held at the West Tampa Boys & Girls Club in early October. More than 120 children took turns throwing, catching, running, tackling and having a ball with United Way of Tampa Bay volunteers and the Buccaneer players and cheerleaders who came to play. Davin tiptoed through the nets and trotted slowly around the obstacle course so the children could keep up. He cheered as the kids tackled the dummy and picked it up for the next enthusiastic tackle. He posed for pictures and signed autographs.

“I learn from everyone, receive knowledge from everyone, and I’ve learned how much of an impact one person can make,” he said. “Our country is going through a rough time right now and I want to help as many people as I can – kids, families, seniors. I bet our Thanksgiving dinner giveaway will double this year.”

He continued, “I want to be the spark that inspires people to give, to volunteer, to get involved.”

How does Davin Joseph LIVE UNITED?

“I LIVE UNITED to help those in need and inspire others to give back.”

A Tampa child goes for a long one.