Blake Corum, a University of Michigan running back and community volunteer, will be honored with the Bank of Ann Arbor Community Award before of the AFC Ann Arbor men’s and club home opener on May 8. Bryan Foley of the Supreme Felons, Jamall Bufford of Washtenaw County My Brother’s Keeper, and Justin Harper, Director of CLR Academy, who all played a crucial role in planning Corum’s Thanksgiving 2021 “Giving Back 2 Give Thanks” turkey drive, will present Corum with the prize.
Corum’s turkey drive attracted a lot of attention from the local, national, and sports media. During Michigan football’s triumph over Ohio State, he was heavily involved. Corum rushed for 87 yards, including a thrilling 55-yard run that had the whole Washtenaw County applauding.
Undoubtedly, Corum had a memorable year both on and off the field. Corum’s foundation has been developed throughout a lifetime of attempting to assist others in any way that he can. “I’ve always been the type of person to try and give back,” Corum added, explaining how the concept of “Giving Back 2 Give Thanks” came to him. I gave back in a variety of ways. In the past, I gave back by hosting camps and imparting knowledge that I had been given.
The turkey drive was the main way that Corum connected with AFC Ann Arbor, although the summer before, Corum had already been actively involved in a number of community initiatives, including frequent appearances at CLR Academy.
Corum exclaimed, “That was awesome!” as he talked fondly of his time spent playing soccer and hoops with the children. To be honest, I had no idea what it was until Mike Hart, the co-founder of CLR Academy and coach to Michigan’s running backs, told me to come out once. I had so much fun that I kept going back.It is excellent for children.
When asked why he celebrated Thanksgiving, Corum clarified that he wanted everyone to be able to enjoy the joy of the occasion. It is a significant holiday. He’d say, “You can kind of just get away from whatever’s bothering you in the world and just laugh, enjoy the day, and spend time with your family.”