Former Bear donates time to Lake Co. YMCA

You could say Antoineo Harris has it all – former pro running back for the Bears and Packers, a most valuable player award from U of I after setting the second all-time leading rusher record in school history, a college education, good health -- in the prime of his life.

But Harris has not forgotten growing up in a rough and tough neighborhood on the west side of Chicago. His parents sent him and his three siblings to the Y to keep them on the right path. There, he learned how to play basketball, track, football, swimming and even archery. More importantly, he says, he learned teamwork, respect, dedication, responsibility and commitment. Harris credits the Y with molding him to the person he is today – God-fearing man, father, brother, friend, role model, college graduate, athlete.

Harris' love of the Y and his desire to pay it forward has led him to be one of our wonderful volunteers sharing his energy and passion to better our youth and community.

“I am blessed. If I can help just one kid accomplish their dream, I'll feel my passion is being put to work, a better feeling than running on any NFL football field. I'll feel like I've saved someone - that I have truly given back to the community.”

The Lake County Family YMCA is a cause-driven nonprofit that strengthens the community through programs and services that foster youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. It was founded in 1892 and is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization.