The San Francisco 49ers will celebrate the NFL's Inspire Change initiative during "Thursday Night Football" this week against the Los Angeles Rams at Levi's® Stadium. The game will highlight the team's social justice initiatives and serve as a reminder that sports can be a powerful platform for positive change off the field.

The 49ers commitment to fostering social justice in the Bay Area doesn't stop at gameday activations. Starting in 2020, the team issued an initial $1 million in grants to 10 California-based social justice organizations, and earlier this season, the 49ers announced an extension of their grant program. This year, the team committed $5 million over 10 years with a focus on improving racial equity, with a focus on the Black community, in these three key areas: improving community-police relations, criminal justice reform and education and economic advancement.

Through a variety of community-focused events, grants and sustained partnerships with local nonprofits, the 49ers have proven their dedication to uplifting the community and advancing racial equity. Recipients of the 49ers Social Justice Grant include Kingmakers of Oakland, East Oakland Youth Development Center, Alive & Free, OK Program & Community Education Partnerships and Urban Peace Movement. These nonprofits are at the forefront of youth empowerment, education and community development in the Bay Area.

To kick off both the football and school season earlier this year, the 49ers partnered with Levi's® and Visa to support local teachers in a back-to-school shopping spree at the Westfield Valley Fair mall. Teachers from the African American Female Excellence program and the Urban Ed Academy were treated to new clothes to prepare for the school year. The event was a tangible way to show appreciation for educators who are making a difference in the local community.

The 49ers also remained committed to empowering local youth through mentorship sessions held at Levi's® Stadium. In October, students from various nonprofits visited the home of the 49ers to engage with players in meaningful conversations about leadership, social justice and personal growth.

Participating organizations like Kingmakers of Oakland, East Oakland Youth Development Center, Alive & Free and Urban Peace Movement all played pivotal roles in guiding youth in underserved communities to success. By providing these mentorship opportunities to local high schoolers, the 49ers are using their platform to help young people build confidence and understand the power they hold to create change in their communities.

The 49ers Read for Justice event presented by Newfront and Rakuten, is another key part of their commitment to embracing diversity and inspire a love for reading with children.

Midway through the season, the 49ers visited Kathryn Hughes Elementary School to read to third and fourth graders and distribute over 1,000 books that highlight the importance of diversity, inclusion and social justice. This annual initiative expresses the team's belief in the power of education as a foundation for social change.

One of the most impactful events in the 49ers community outreach efforts is their annual Tony York Memorial Visit to San Quentin State Prison.

For nearly three decades, Pastor Earl Smith, the team's chaplain, has led visits to the California state prison where players engage in conversations with incarcerated men about issues like criminal justice reform and personal growth. This year, the team also gifted 49ers goodie bags and provided a special visitation lunch for the families of inmates.

The team's commitment to social justice through their grant and direct engagement with underserved communities is a testament to their clear focus on making meaningful change throughout the local community. As the season continues, the 49ers remain committed to inspiring change, proving that their impact extends far beyond the field.