ICL Has a Blast at New York Giants Training Camp

(New York, NY) – On Friday, August 2nd, more than two dozen youth from ICL’s Family Resource Center (FRC) and other agency programs made a special trip to Giants training camp in East Rutherford, NJ. After watching the Giants practice and prepare for their August 8 preseason opener against the Jets, the team from ICL, led by CEO David Woodlock and Board Chair Mary Harrison, had the chance to meet with Giants safety Sean Chandler. Chandler had been honored last May with ICL’s “Live Like a Champion” Award at their annual gala for his courage and resilience in overcoming a childhood of adversity to go on to become a football star (and graduate in kinesiology) at Temple University before joining the Giants last year.

“Sean Chandler is an inspiring young man and a tremendous example to young people who are dealing with adversity in their lives,” said David Woodlock, ICL President and CEO. “We are so thankful to Sean for taking the time to speak with our young people and to the Giants for being such wonderful and accommodating hosts. We wish the Giants and Sean the best of luck this season – everyone at ICL will be rooting for them!”

Located at ICL’s East New York Health Hub, the Family Resource Center is a support program for parents and caregivers of children and youth up to 24 years old with behavioral health challenges. Following a peer support model, FRC is staffed by family and youth advocates. Services include emotional support, advocacy and education about family rights, mental health conditions and services, referrals to community resources, and recreational and leisure activities. FRC helps families navigate complex systems of care including Family Court, the Administration for Children’s Services, Department of Mental Health, schools and linkages to community resources. Young people from other ICL programs joined the FRC kids and parents for a great day watching the Giants in action and then having time with Chandler who happily signed autographs and posed for pictures with his ICL fans.

Sean Chandler is entering his second season in the NFL with the Giants. Growing up in Camden, N.J., Chandler faced seemingly insurmountable challenges including years of homelessness and food insecurity. His extraordinary work ethic and dedication to football led him first to a successful career at Temple University, where he was credited for transforming the mindset of fellow players, and then to his dream job of playing in the NFL. In addition to his performance on the field with the Giants, Sean has made significant contributions to the local community.

About the Institute for Community Living
ICL provides trauma-informed, recovery-oriented, integrated, and person-centered care through supportive and transitional housing, counseling, and supportive services for adults, children, and families with mental health challenges and those living with developmental disabilities. We serve 10,000 people each year; every night 2,500 New Yorkers call ICL home. Our goal is to help people achieve better health and the most fulfilling life possible.