SOURCE OF WEALTH: NFL Player
FUNDING AREAS: Disaster/Famine Relief, Justice, Promotion of Human Rights, Community Development, Good News of Salvation in Jesus, Bible Translation
OVERVIEW: Kirk and Julie Cousins conduct philanthropy through the newly-minted Julie and Kirk Cousins Foundation, which granted $195,000 in a recent year. The foundation centers its grantmaking on support religious and educational organizations.
BACKGROUND: Born in 1988, Kirk Cousins was raised in Michigan and played college football at Michigan State University. He was drafted in the NFL in 2012 and was a quarterback for the Washington Redskins. In 2018, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings on a three-year $84 million contract.
Julie Cousins attended University of Georgia. After graduation, she worked as an elementary school teacher.
ISSUES:
THE JULIE AND KIRK COUSINS FOUNDATION: The foundation states that it is “called to Transform Worldly Resources into Heavenly Riches through Extravagant Generosity.” The couple describe themselves as followers of Jesus and have committed to giving 15 percent of their gross income on an annual basis to their philanthropy. Grantmaking is just kicking off. Through their young foundation, they’ve supported places like International Justice Mission, which deals with modern day slavery and violence against the poor; Urban HomeWorks, which provides equitable urban housing solutions in Minneapolis and St. Paul; Compassionate Heart in Michigan; Holland Christian Schools; and Discovery Church, where Cousins’ father Don is lead pastor.
LOOKING FORWARD: One of Forbes’ highest paid athletes in recent years, Kirk Cousins and his family should be watched for greater giving down the line.
CONTACT: Email
