Gridiron to Gala: Cowboys $80 million man shows up big for worthiest of causes

USA Today

30-03-2025

Gridiron to Gala: Cowboys $80 million man shows up big for worthiest of causes
Gold gowns, sharp suits, and the kind of electricity that only happens when purpose meets celebration. The Odighizuwa Foundation's inaugural gala on Saturday night in Frisco, TX wasn't just another fancy event—it was a glimpse at what's possible when athletes pour into something bigger than themselves. And the foundation's founder himself, Osa Odighizuwa? His profession might be football, but his purpose runs deeper.
At its core, the Odighizuwa Foundation exists to show up for single-parent families — providing resources, creating access, uplifting through education, and offering the kind of support that empowers both single parents and their children to thrive.
Since its establishment, the organization has launched initiatives to assist with household needs, provide support groups and educational tools to parents, and offer mentorship and scholarships to children. They've hosted community events, helped secure essentials like Chromebooks and internet access, and remained rooted in the belief that resources and support can literally change lives.
Odighizuwa, who called the Foundation's mission 'deeply personal,' has become the face of the organization as its most high-profile founder. But on Saturday night, he made space to amplify the voices of community leaders whose stories illustrated the why behind the work.
Debra Nixon-Bowles, Founder & CEO of Women Called Moses, gave a stirring testimony on how supporting single-parent families isn't just about mentorship and meals. It's about breaking cycles that often lead to homelessness, psychological distress, school dropouts, and incarceration.
Keynote speaker Vita Flores, a financial literacy educator, spoke candidly about her own journey — how a desire to help her mother escape poverty led her down a path that ended with a federal prison sentence. Her story wasn't just powerfu; it was proof that transformation is possible with the right kind of support.
Throughout the night, Odighizuwa moved through the room with gratitude and pride, shaking hands, giving hugs, and thanking guests who believe in the vision.
The guest list included several Dallas Cowboys notables, including tight ends coach Lunda Wells and quarterback Dak Prescott who, true to form, came through in the clutch during the live auction. When the bidding on one package needed a little extra push, a quiet conversation between Prescott and Odighizuwa led to a quick remix of the offer. The result? The Cowboys Experience item more than doubled in value.
'Dak was just helping me to get a little bit more,' Odighizuwa said. 'We were talking about the Cowboys package. It was a little bit modest. He said, 'You know we could double what we got going on and get a little bit more money.' He whispered that in my ear, and I relayed it to the auctioneer.'
That display of teamwork happened during dinner, but other Cowboys stepped up in different ways to support the cause. Micah Parsons shared, via social media, that he made a donation to the Odighizuwa Foundation, and Odighizuwa commented that several teammates purchased tickets although they were unable to attend.
Osa Odighizuwa has the respect of his peers and the heart of a man committed to more than stats and sacks. Saturday night wasn't just a win for his foundation. It was a statement.
Still, the work continues. The Odighizuwa Foundation is still working toward its annual fundraising goals and preparing for future events and initiatives.
To donate, view upcoming auction items, or learn more about the organization, visit odighizuwafoundation.org and follow @odighizuwafoundation on Instagram.