Hello Friends,

I want to take a moment to pause and speak from my heart. And if you’re moving through this season carrying more than people can see, let me remind you of this: showing up for others has a way of filling your spirit right back up.

Recently, I had the honor of serving alongside some incredible people in a city that knows the meaning of heart, Chicago. While we were out there pouring into families, Collabing with Power 92 and them giving a shout-out to Me, my son Grady, and the Grady Gives Foundation. And I won’t lie, it meant a lot. Not because of the recognition, but because it reminded me that when you serve with sincerity, the love always circles back.

That day, we were blessed to give out over 250 turkeys to families on 63rd & Houston. But what stayed with me most wasn’t the number, It was the people. The smiles. The conversations. The gratitude exchanged between strangers who felt like family by the end of it. In those moments, you realize that service isn’t about what you hand out, It’s about how you show up.

The Heart of the Work

As I stood there meeting mothers, fathers, elders, and children, I was reminded why community matters so deeply to me. I saw strength in people who are still pushing forward despite challenges. I saw hope in young faces eager to help. I felt warmth in the way neighbors looked out for one another.

That’s what community is. It's a connection. It’s compassion. It’s choosing to stand with people, not above them.

This work has never been about visibility or praise for me. It’s about impact. It’s about honoring the responsibility we have to pour back into the places and people who shape us. When you serve from the heart, you walk away richer than you arrived.

What This Moment Reminded Me

• Moments like this remind me of a few truths I carry with me:

• Service is love in action.

• Community grows when we show up consistently.

• Giving doesn’t drain you, it restores you.

• Purpose becomes clearer when you pour into others.

• Gratitude lives in the smallest exchanges.

Every smile I saw that day was a reminder that kindness still matters, and that there is so much good when we choose to lead with heart.

My Message to You

If you’ve ever wondered whether your presence makes a difference, let me tell you—it does. Whether you’re giving your time, your resources, or simply your compassion, it all matters. You don’t have to do something big to make an impact. You just have to do it with love.

Chicago, thank you for your warmth, your generosity, and your spirit. You are truly special, and I am honored to serve alongside you.

Your Turn

If this message speaks to you, I encourage you to find one way, big or small, to give back this season. And if you’d like to be part of conversations rooted in purpose, family, and community, join me on Inside the Shield with Pro Football Moms, where we talk about real life, real love, and the power of showing up.

Because when we serve together, we rise together. 💜
Happy Thanksgiving.

— Elisha Jarrett