The offseason isn't much of a time to relax for Ravens defensive lineman Chris Canty.
The veteran defender has used the last four months to devote much of his time to charity work through his foundation. Canty has spearheaded multiple projects in the New York/New Jersey area, where he played for four seasons with the Giants and still lives in the offseason.
"I think it's a great opportunity to be blessed with the platform that I have to be in the NFL to make a positive impact in the lives of people in our community," Canty said during a recent phone interview.
Canty's foundation focuses its efforts on young people, and providing educational resources for underserved children.
"I have a passion for working with young people, trying to make a difference in their lives," Canty said.
This offseason Canty launched a reading program for students in the New York/New Jersey area, which connects volunteers with local students. The foundation also partners with companies to provide funds for supplies at various schools.
"This is our drive to improve literacy in elementary age kids," Canty said. "We have an army of volunteer readers that come into select schools that we partner with, and they read to the kids once a month. This program is designed to improve basic reading skills. We've partnered with companies that issue school materials to help offset some of the costs we incur in donating to these kids."
Canty also has a charity golf outing planned, which is the key fundraiser for his foundation.
In addition to his community work, the 31-year-old lineman has spent time honing his skills in the media business. Canty would like to enter the broadcasting profession after his NFL career, and he has worked with CNN, NBC, NFL Network and various radio outlets in recent months.
"It's fun. I enjoy it," Canty said. "And I definitely see that as an opportunity for me after I get done playing. Hopefully that's a while from now, but I definitely see that as an opportunity down the road."
