Drew Brees

Drew Brees, the legendary quarterback known for his record-breaking performances on the football field, has also made a significant impact off the field through his philanthropic efforts. Since his retirement from the NFL, Brees has dedicated much of his time and resources to charitable initiatives that aim to improve the lives of individuals and communities in need. Through the Brees Dream Foundation and various partnerships with nonprofit organizations, he has championed causes such as education, health care, and youth development.

For Brees, philanthropy isn’t just a side gig; it’s personal. Growing up in a supportive family with strong values laid the groundwork for his giving spirit. Following his experience with injuries and understanding the struggles many face, he has made it his mission to lift others up. He often reflects on his own journey and champions the belief that everyone deserves a chance to succeed, no matter their starting line.

Drew Brees, born on January 15, 1979, in Austin, Texas, emerged from an athletic lineage that substantially shaped his early life. His father, Eugene “Chip” Brees II, was a prominent trial lawyer and former Texas A&M basketball player, while his mother, Mina Brees, an attorney herself, also played a pivotal role in his upbringing. The familial environment fostered Drew’s fervor for sports from a young age.

Attending Westlake High School in Austin provided him with an ideal platform to harness his nascent talent in football and baseball. Despite confronting a knee injury during his junior year, Brees demonstrated resilience and prowess on the football field, leading Westlake to a 16-0 record and a state championship as a senior. These formative years were marked by an unwavering commitment to excellence and leadership, setting the foundation for his storied future in professional football.

Drew Brees is a former NFL quarterback widely regarded as one of the most accurate and productive passers in league history. After a standout college career at Purdue, he was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in 2001 but reached legendary status after joining the New Orleans Saints in 2006. Over 15 seasons in New Orleans, Brees transformed a struggling franchise into a perennial contender, leading the Saints to their first Super Bowl victory in 2009 and earning the game’s MVP. Known for his precision, leadership and football IQ, he retired as the NFL’s all-time leader in career passing yards and completions, while also holding multiple single-season records for accuracy.

Off the field, Brees became a respected civic leader in New Orleans for his philanthropic work. His consistency, durability and impact on both the Saints and the city secured his status as one of the greatest quarterbacks of his era. The cornerstone of his philanthropic efforts, the Brees Dream Foundation, has been dedicated to making the world a better a place.

Founded in 2003 by Drew and Brittany Brees, the Brees Dream Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals and communities in need, with a strong focus on pediatric health, cancer care, education and community revitalization. Inspired by Drew’s mother’s battle with cancer, the foundation began by supporting cancer patients and research and has since expanded its mission significantly.

Over the years, it has donated more than $40 million to charitable causes, funding projects such as healthcare centers in underserved Louisiana communities, youth mentoring programs, post-Katrina rebuilding efforts in New Orleans, and meal distribution during the COVID-19 pandemic. The foundation is known for its transparency and hands-on community impact, partnering with hospitals, schools, and local organizations to create sustainable, long-term change. Through this work, Brees Dream has become one of the most influential athlete-led charities in the United States.

Beyond his own foundation, Drew Brees has been deeply involved in a wide range of charitable efforts throughout his career, especially those focused on youth, education, health care and support for military families. He has supported national organizations such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the USO, regularly participating in events and funding programs for children facing life-threatening illnesses or challenging circumstances. Brees has also been an advocate for military service members and veterans, contributing to initiatives honoring their service and aiding in their transition back to civilian life. In addition, he has partnered with local schools and community organizations to enhance educational resources, technology access and recreational facilities — particularly in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. 

At the heart of Brees’ philanthropic efforts lie some steadfast values: humility, integrity, and a relentless spirit of service. He operates under the principle that true leadership is measured by service to others. By applying these core values, Brees ensures his charitable initiatives are not just about donating money but also about fostering genuine relationships and creating lasting change in communities.

Brees’ philanthropic portfolio isn’t just a bulleted list—it’s a manifesto of commitment. He’s become synonymous with impactful projects that resonate widely, particularly in New Orleans, where his heart remains firmly planted. Each initiative is designed not just to address immediate needs, but to empower individuals for the future.

Photo Credit: “Drew Brees!” by Arete13 is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0.