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Atlanta Falcons defensive end Chauncey Davis

Atlanta Falcons defensive end Chauncey Davis is calling on Atlantans to donate new bikes for inner-city youth this holiday season to promote exercise and healthy lifestyles 365 days a year. The Chauncey Davis Bike For Life initiative will provide at least 92 bikes to youth this Christmas as a part of an ongoing effort to encourage physical fitness to combat childhood obesity and diabetes. All donations must be received by Friday, Dec. 18.

“We know the best ways to combat diabetes and childhood obesity is to diet and exercise,” said Davis, whose mother lost her leg due to complications associated with diabetes. “There is no better gift I can think of than the gift of life through promoting healthy lifestyles and exercise year round. I am calling on Atlanta to help me reach our young people by donating to this worthy cause.”

Davis established The Chauncey Davis Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, in 2007 shortly after his mother’s amputation. Since its inception, the foundation has worked in the community promoting health/wellness, nutrition and diabetes awareness. “Diabetes has totally changed my life,” added Davis. “If I can expose young people to a different way of life, then their story may not have to be my mother’s story. I would consider it a big win!”

The Trust for America’s Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation recently reported that Georgia has the third-highest rate of obese and overweight youths in the nation, with more than a third of its youth falling into a category of obesity. According to Alliance for A Healthier Generation, major causes of childhood obesity include: poor nutrition, less physical education at schools and limited access to recreational equipment and sports facilities.

“I am excited to work with Chauncey on this life-changing and life-saving initiative,” added DeKalb County Commissioner Lee May, who also serves on the board of directors for The Chauncey Davis Foundation. “Whether it’s riding a bike, swimming or playing football, we want our kids throughout the metro area to remain active and enjoy the parks, paths and athletic programs.”

The Bike For Life program will take place on Dec. 22. Additionally, each donated bike will be accompanied by a personalized holiday message from the various donors and contributing organization.

Those interested in making a bike donation or monetary contribution for the Chauncey Davis Bike For Life initiative should contact Nicoma Wood at (404) 293-0946 or e-mail chaunceydavisfoundation@gmail.com.