Former All-American USC safety and current NFL free agent Darnell Bing recently hosted his 2nd Annual Bowling with the Stars event at Cal Bowl in Lakewood, Calif.
The event raised more than $3,500 and brought out over 100 of Bing’s family, friends, and local business owners. Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Down Syndrome Association of Los Angeles (DSALA).
Bowling with the Stars was held in honor of Bing’s cousin, who is affected by Down syndrome.
“Since I am very close to my cousin who is affected by Down syndrome it made sense to put on this event to raise awareness and show people that even with this type of disability they still can have a good time bowling and interacting with others,” Bing stated.
According to DSALA, a non-profit organization, Down syndrome is the most common survivable genetic difference affecting one in every 733 live births. The genes on the extra chromosome interact with other genes causing varying degrees of learning difficulties as well as physical disabilities. The learning difficulties or degree of intellectual disability can be mild to severe, but most commonly falls somewhere in the moderate area.
DSALA’s mission is to enhance the welfare of people with Down syndrome and their families through the development and promotion of education, counseling, employment and recreational programs and to increase public awareness, and understanding and acceptance of Down syndrome. As an affiliate of both the National Down Syndrome Society and the National Down Syndrome Congress, DSALA provides families with the link to a nationwide community that supports individuals with Down syndrome.
Celebrity guests included current and former NFL players: Hamza Abdullah – Arizona Cardinals; Jason David – Colts Super Bowl Champion and former New Orleans Saints; Eric Wright – Cleveland Browns; Terrell Thomas – NY Giants; Dominique Byrd – Seattle Seahawks; Robert Thomas – Former Oakland Raider Linebacker; Donovon Warren – Pittsburg Steelers; Terrance Austin – Washington Redskins; and Samie Parker – Las Vegas Locos (UFL) /former Kansas City Chiefs.
Elton John
Annie Lennox
Bill Clinton
Bono
Paul McCartney
Sting
George Clooney
Ellen DeGeneres
UNICEF
Red Cross
PETA
Make-A-Wish Foundation
Elton John AIDS Foundation
Stand Up To Cancer
Comments
about 2 years ago
That was a very good event and turnout. All the people there were very friendly and I can see why they raised a lot of money. I hope to attend many more times. Thanks!!!!!!!
about 2 years ago
Hey, I was there and I had a great time.
I have seen Darnell Bing play football before but he's got a heart bigger than any game he's played, it was cool being there and he's very down to earth, cool - real cool!
about 2 years ago
Fantastic! Thank you Darnell Bing for the awareness you bring to down syndrome. Great charity - bowling with the NFL players, you raised a lot of money for Down Syndrome of Los Angeles and brought attention to this issue. You've inspired me to do more and give more and be a better person in my community; thank you Mr. Bing
about 2 years ago
Wow! I attended this charity event with my entire family. It was a great turnout and a lot of fun, especially for my son Adam who has down syndrome. Adam met Darnell Bing and took pictures with him and also bowled a few games with him. I have seen Darnell on the football field since his days at Poly high school - go jack rabbits! But his rare and delightful giving was top notch at this event. He was is so warm and touchable, he made every child feel welcome, certainly my Adam is a big Darnell Bing fan. Thank you so much for all you do........
about 2 years ago
Darnell Bing and his team of NFL players and volunteers displayed an abundance of fun and love to the Down Syndrome of Los Angeles organization. I was happy to see so many children and their family at this event. And they raised a lot of money, $3,500 is a lot of money. Especially in this economy, I work at a non profit in LA, most of our donations and charitable contributions have dropped off substantially. We may have a fundraiser dinner or event that will garnish so many dollars for our cause. This was just a great event for all. I tip my NFL helmet to Darnell Bing!!!
about 2 years ago
Wow, man that was a great time Bowling for Down Syndrome. Thanks Darnell Bing and all your NFL buddies for giving back in such a grand way. This was a lot of fun, I was happy to be a part of it and to give from my heart, seeing how you gave from yours - you're a super role model to these kids and to the community. Hey man, go get 'em this year, have a great year Bing!
about 2 years ago
Thanks Darnell Bing! I took my son to both of your charity events for down syndrome. They are so well attended, but I am sure there were close to 200 people there. The article states 100; I know for sure there was well over 100 people there - it was very well attended. We had a great time, and bowling for dollars is a family fun event that everyone participated in. My son has the picture he took with you and your NFL T-shirt on his wall. It's the pride he has for attending this charity. I personally thank you as a Dad for the work you do, the kids all love you and do my family. Thanks again and we look forward to next year, please keep up the good work!
about 2 years ago
Bing brings bling - and cash to such a worthy charity, thank you for your big hearted ways. I want to attend every year
about 2 years ago
This was such a wonderful event. Darnell Bing has such a big heart, the kids really love him and I am very grateful for being a part of this great charity.
about 2 years ago
Thanks, Bing, for your advocacy and bringing awareness about Down syndrome to the spotlight. My son, who has the extra "love" chromosome, just turned 2 and it's been quite an adventure already. I think it's incredibly important for people to see how successful and fun those w/ Ds are. I'm a major advocate and I try to bring awareness whenever given the opportunity (some times I take the opportunity...LOL) Keep up with promoting the awareness! BTW: tell some of your FL Jaguars friends to host something :) Thanks, again!!
Add your comment →