Launched by Lions players and ownership following the conclusion of the 2018 NFL season, Detroit Lions Inspire Change will invest $490,000 in financial support through grants to 11 Metro Detroit organizations in 2021. During the 2020 season, Detroit Lions players identified supporting families impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, along with providing resources to individuals in the City of Detroit, as key priorities for the Inspire Change initiative. To date, more than $1.5 million in funding support has been committed to local social justice-focused nonprofits.

Throughout October, the Lions host on-field, in-stadium and community events to shine a light on multiple cancers and provide meaningful experiences for patients and caregivers impacted by the disease. An NFL initiative that has raised more than $18 million since inception to support cancer initiatives across the country, Crucial Catch focuses on education, early detection and screening.

Salute to Service is an NFL initiative designed to honor, empower and connect with our nation's service members and their families. Through partnerships with local nonprofits and military bases, the Lions host and participate in a variety of initiatives for service members, veterans, and families of the fallen to provide support, express gratitude, and foster community.

Legend Eric Hipple is the 2020 Detroit Lions nominee for the Salute to Service Award, an honor given to members of the NFL who demonstrate an exemplary commitment to honoring and supporting the military community. Following the suicide of his 15-year old son, Jeff, Hipple dedicated his life to breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness, focusing on the military and NFL. As part of his work, Hipple has led Army, Navy and Air Force suicide prevention initiatives and mental fitness training. His book, "Real Men Do Cry," received a publisher Presidential Award for its contributions to society.

My Cause My Cleats gives players the opportunity to represent causes they are passionate about through custom designed cleats during weeks 13-15 of the season. Each design exemplifies the mission of the player's chosen cause. More than 40 Lions players and coaches wore the special cleats in 2020 during the Packers vs. Lions game, to raise awareness for their cause on a national stage. Click here to view photos

Hispanic Heritage month is a league-wide initiative to celebrate and honor the tradition and positive impact of the Latina community on the game of football and the country at large. In 2020, the Lions supported this initiative through the Detroit Votes campaign.

In partnership with the NFL and the United Way, the Lions provide digital Social Emotional learning programming to middle school students in the community. Through the evidence-based program, students learn about healthy relationships, social-emotional learning and conflict resolution, often culminating with a conversation or celebration with Lions players, cheerleaders and Roary.