Malcolm Mitchell: From Super Bowl Champion to Literacy Advocate

Malcolm Mitchell, a former NFL wide receiver and Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots, has embarked on an inspiring journey from the football field to the world of literacy advocacy. Born on July 20, 1993, in Valdosta, Georgia, Mitchell's story is one of resilience and passion for reading. After retiring from professional football in 2019 due to injuries, he dedicated himself to promoting literacy among children through his non-profit organization, Read with Malcolm. His mission is to inspire young readers and emphasize the importance of literacy, a cause close to his heart due to his own struggles with reading as a child.

Mitchell's journey began in college at the University of Georgia, where he discovered a love for reading that would change his life. Despite being a standout athlete, he joined a local book club, which was predominantly attended by older women, to improve his reading skills. This decision not only helped him academically but also sparked a passion for books that he wanted to share with others. His experience led him to write a children's book, "The Magician's Hat," which encourages kids to read and dream big.

In 2016, Mitchell's NFL career reached its pinnacle when he played a crucial role in the Patriots' historic comeback victory in Super Bowl LI. However, his career was cut short by injuries, leading him to retire at the young age of 26. Rather than seeing this as a setback, Mitchell viewed it as an opportunity to focus on his literacy advocacy work. Through Read with Malcolm, he has reached thousands of children across the United States, hosting reading rallies and distributing books to schools in need.

Mitchell's work is a testament to the power of literacy and the impact it can have on a person's life. By sharing his story and passion for reading, he hopes to inspire the next generation to embrace books and the endless possibilities they offer. His journey from the gridiron to the classroom is a reminder that with determination and a love for learning, anyone can make a difference in the world.