Matt Ryan Creates GoFundMe To Support Atlanta's Black Community

ATLANTA, GA — Last week, Atlanta Falcons Quarterback Matt Ryan made a commitment to listening and learning. One of the messages he received that hit home was the difference between reacting to a situation and responding to a situation.

Ryan said he sees his city hurting, which is why he created a GoFundMe with a goal of $2 million to help improve the community for people of color in the city of Atlanta.

"For far too long I have reacted to social injustice with empathy and silent support but failed to follow through with active support," Ryan wrote on the fundraising page. "I feel the time has come to RESPOND. For ALL of us to respond."

Ryan started the fundraiser with a $500,000 donation and is now asking for others to consider donating as well. As of Friday morning, nearly 400 people have donated to the fundraiser, which has raised $517,654 so far.

"Whether big or small, you will be joining me in making a difference," Ryan wrote. "Over the next few weeks/months I’ll be really listening to the needs of the community and working with black business leaders, sports figures, activists and local grassroots organizations to get guidance on how these donations can be most impactful. Let’s rise up as a community. It’s time."

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