On Friday, San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch and his wife Linda held their 19th Annual Salute the Stars awards luncheon at Sports Authority Field. The event honors student-athletes, and students with special needs from the Denver and greater Colorado area who excel in academics, athletics and community involvement.
Since 2000, the John Lynch Foundation has continued its focus on developing young leaders and recognizing what is 'right' with today's youth.
This year's luncheon hosted over 1,000 students from Denver public schools, and surrounding districts, awarding over $118,000 in scholarships and awards.
"I think what we try to do is just try to provide opportunities," Lynch said. "We've got a great community that right away in 2004 when I got here, articulated what our hope was for this foundation."
Vance Joseph, first-year head coach of the Denver Broncos was the featured speaker for the ceremony. Past speakers included John Gruden, Peyton Manning, Gary Kubiak, John Elway, Missy Franklin and others.
Despite being 10 years removed from the Broncos organization, Lynch continues to contribute to the youth of his former community.
"It's about the kids and much more than where I'm working," Lynch added. "This field is packed with supporters who have come to see these great kids. It's an awesome thing for us and leaves me feeling really good."
To date, the John Lynch Foundation has awarded $1.1 million in scholarships to over 169 student-athletes in hopes of continuing to provide assistance and motivate young individuals.
