Ravens Honored for a Legacy of Service and Community Impact

The Baltimore Ravens have long been champions on the field, but their impact extends far beyond football. In recognition of more than 26 years of partnership, philanthropy, and community leadership, Kennedy Krieger Institute presented the organization with the Henry A. Rosenberg, Jr. Community Award, one of the Institute's highest honors, at its annual Society Reception in June. 

A group of Kennedy Krieger staff members and Bennett Blazers adaptive sports athletes at Ravens training camp.

Named for the late Henry Rosenberg, a devoted Kennedy Krieger board member and community leader, the award recognizes individuals and organizations whose service strengthens both Kennedy Krieger and the broader community. 

Beginning in 1998, the Baltimore Ravens became a lead sponsor of Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Festival of Trees, launching a partnership that has grown into one of the Institute’s most enduring and meaningful community relationships. The bond deepened in 2005 when Dick Cass joined Kennedy Krieger’s Board of Directors while serving as president of the Ravens. 

Three people stand in front of a Kennedy Krieger step-and-repeat backdrop. The person in the center holds a framed award plaque that reads Henry A. Rosenberg, Jr. Community Award with Baltimore Ravens visible at the bottom, while the two people on either side pose beside the recipient.

Under his leadership, and through the continued commitment of Lisa Dixon, Senior Director of Special Events and Special Assistant to the Owner, and Heather Darney, Vice President of Community Relations and Executive Director of the Ravens Foundation, the Ravens’ involvement has expanded well beyond sponsorships, reflecting a shared dedication to improving the lives of children and families across Baltimore and Maryland. 

This summer, the Ravens welcomed members of the Kennedy Krieger community, including patients and students, along with their siblings, families, and caregivers, to training camp for an exciting day of football and fun.  

Dick Cass, Lisa Dixon and Heather Darney, at the Kennedy Krieger Society Reception.

“The children at Kennedy Krieger inspire our players and staff, said Cass. “We are proud to partner with an organization that each year improves the lives of nearly 30,000 children in the Baltimore region and beyond.

The partnership between the Ravens and Kennedy Krieger continues to demonstrate what is possible when two organizations unite around a common purpose, creating opportunities, advancing care, and strengthening the communities they serve.

The recognition from Kennedy Krieger earlier in the spring was a precursor to another significant honor for the organization. In July, the Baltimore Ravens received ESPN's Sports Humanitarian Team of the Year Award, which celebrates teams that use the power of sports to create meaningful social impact. This national recognition underscores what organizations across the region have long known: the Ravens' commitment to service, inclusion, and community engagement is woven into the fabric of the franchise.

Ravens running back Derrick Henry with two members of the Bennett Blazers adaptive sports team.

Together, these honors highlight a shared belief between the Ravens and Kennedy Krieger that strong communities are built through partnership, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to helping others thrive.

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