Former NFL player and chaplain to the Chicago Bears Ray McElroy will be the featured speaker at Sarah Bush Lincoln’s Kidsfest. McElroy will visit six area schools, including Sullivan Middle School next Tuesday, and provide an inspirational message about nutrition and fitness.

In all, approximately 3,400 area students will hear his message.

McElroy graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a degree in economics and played cornerback for the school. He was a fourth-round draft pick in 1995. A professional football player, McElroy played cornerback for six seasons for the Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Bears, and Detroit Lions in the National Football League. He later became a licensed minister and served as the team chaplain for the Chicago Bears.

Through his love of sports and high energy, McElroy manages to capture the hearts and minds of youth, teens, and adults nationwide. His passionate, yet hard-hitting message has enlightened and inspired audiences from viewers of MTV Made to employees of major corporations to members of mega churches alike.

He is also the founder of A Ray of Hope on Earth, a non-profit organization focused on empowering youth, changing lives and making a difference in young men across America through school tours, biblical and educational programs, and youth football camps. He hosts a free summer football camp for boys in the area through the Mattoon Junior Football League.

McElroy’s Kidsfest presentation is made possible through Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Communities. For more information, contact Healthy Communities at 345-6827.