When Derwin James is on the field, there is almost no position that he can’t play. He lines up at safety, linebacker, slot corner, edge rusher, and the other safety spot. That is called versatility.
On Tuesday evening, James showed off other sets of skills: gracious host, server, communicator, autograph signer, and having a big smile for photos.
James, for years, has teamed up with the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Ana. For the last few years, he, along with the Club, served over 150 meals to less fortunate families and then boxed over 200 meals and distributed them in the community.
“Being able to come out here and make an impact and help change lives and see smiles on faces, it’s amazing,” James said.
The Chargers safety grew up in the Boys and Girls Club, so as soon as he got to Los Angeles, he knew he wanted to make an impact. CEO Robert Santana said that having James be a part of their holiday events means a lot to the community.
“Every time we introduce him to some kids, I get to introduce him as a former club kid,” Santana said. “So, these kids get to see a professional athlete that came from humble beginnings.”
Santana and his crew designed the gym to give families a unique experience. They first had to make a reservation. They would walk into the gym, then a volunteer would walk them to their seats and take their order. The volunteer would get their order and bring it back—a full restaurant experience.
James was in charge of serving the mashed potatoes and gravy. He had a heavy hand on purpose to give folks a little more. After serving, James walked around, wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.
He walked up to a table with a mother seated with her three sons and began to ask them questions.
“Which one of you is the funniest?” James would ask.
Each boy pointed at the other, barely speaking because they were shy.
“Just trying to warm them up and let them know that hey, man, I’m human, just like you. I put on my pants just like you,” James said. “It’s nothing to be nervous about.”
James walked up to a father, mother, and son eating dinner and asked if he could sit down. The mother was hesitant, but James told her, “Ma’am, I am just here to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving.” She saw James smile, and she smiled back.
“It’s just cool, man being able to do that and change lives,” James said.
This isn’t the only time that James shows up for the community. Santana said during the pandemic that the Chargers safety would constantly be in contact asking how he could help.
It doesn’t stop there.
James has funded vision clinics so kids that can’t afford prescription glasses can get what they need, he has donated funds for kids to get back to school wardrobes and even sends personal video messages for students who may need a pick me up.
Being a good role model is important to him.
“I feel like a lot of people look up to me, a lot of people count on me,” James explained. “I feel like a lot of people are going through things in life, and they use me as an outlet sometimes to help them get through stuff. So, I feel like I always think about that and try to move the right way.”
James has also teamed up with his best friend and Los Angeles Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey to help “Shut Down Hunger.” For every sack, interception, or fumble recovery made by the Rams or Chargers, 2,500 meals will be donated to the L.A. area with Raising Canes.
The Chargers safety loves Thanksgiving because it is a time to reflect on what you have and if you can give back to others. It is a time for families to spend quality time together. It is a time to be thankful.
“I’m thankful for life, man,” James said. “I’m just thankful to be able to live my life every day and be the person I am. Be the dad I am, be the player, and be the son to my mom. Just everything.”
