Russell Wilson Brings Awareness To The V Foundation With My Cause My Cleats 2022 Initiative
Russell Wilson and local Denver painter, muralist, and performer, Armando Silva, joined forces for the NFL’s 2022 My Cause My Cleats Campaign. Together, Russell and Armando dreamed up a powerful, one-of-a-kind design that represents The V Foundation which is this year’s beneficiary.
Silva is known for taking inspiration from his Mexican heritage and creating compelling pieces that give communities a sense of representation, pride, and access to the arts in a way that is authentic and unique to the locality. In the cleat design, he incorporated powerful images of a child in a superhero costume and two hands joining together to further the message of strength and community. Two important quotes are also on the cleats- “Why Not You?” a message near and dear to Russell’s heart, and “Don’t Give Up, Don’t Ever Give Up,” a quote that the Founder of The V Foundation, Jim Valvano, would always say.
Russell wore the cleats against the Ravens during the December 4th game. The cleats are signed by Russell and are now available for bidding on the Broncos auction website until December 17th. Proceeds from the sale of the cleats will go to The V Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting cutting-edge cancer research to achieve Victory Over Cancer®.
*Disclaimer: These are game-worn cleats. Cleat condition may differ from the original photos showcased.
The V Foundation
The V Foundation was founded in 1993 by ESPN and legendary basketball coach Jim Valvano with one goal in mind: to achieve Victory Over Cancer®. Since its formation the V Foundation has awarded over $310 million in cancer research grants nationwide and has grown to become one of the premier supporters of cutting-edge cancer research.
ARTmando
Armando Silva is a painter, muralist, and performer who uses his artistic superpowers to tell powerful stories, build community, and inspire audiences through art. His artistic practice focuses on public art that tell personal stories, created on canvases in his studio or at times created through live art in front of thousands. Armando's large-scale mural installations give communities a way to communicate messages that can't always be said in words. Armando has been celebrated for his collaborations with cities, non-profits, businesses, and educators across the state and beyond.