When it comes to giving back, philanthropy takes many forms, such as fundraisers, youth camps, and book fairs. However, when you’re trying to connect with a city’s culture and break generational barriers through music, skating, and storytelling, it takes something special.
That’s exactly what Atlanta Falcons cornerback AJ Terrell achieved with his Mr. Atlanta Roller Ball event, hosted through the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation.
Investing in Atlanta’s Future
The AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation is dedicated to building a stronger Atlanta by investing in its greatest asset: its youth. Through strategic programs and partnerships with organizations of all sizes, the foundation provides leadership development, essential resources, and long-term support systems.
The goal is to create sustainable, community-driven solutions that empower the next generation and help Atlanta thrive.
The Roller Ball was more than just a night out; it was a cultural moment. Guests laced up their skates and brought Cascade energy to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, vibing to live performances from Breski and Young Dro.
A Night for Everyone
What made the event truly stand out was its inclusivity. It was built for everyone—kids, teens, professionals, and community leaders alike. The energy centered around one shared goal: to come together, meet the needs of the community, and have a great time doing it.
We caught up with Terrell to talk about the foundation and his passion for supporting underserved student-athletes.
MCB: How does it feel to give back to the same city where you were raised?
Terrell: It took me a couple of years to get going, but it feels great to give back to the student-athletes in my community by giving them a platform and an academic coach, especially at Westlake High School, where I went, and Frederick Douglass High School. A learning coach can help them through tough times, provide support where it’s lacking, and show them how to succeed beyond just sports.
MCB: Having that foundation from your family and faith, how has that helped you stay balanced throughout your career?
Terrell: My family has been super supportive my whole life, helping me stay focused, humble, and purposeful. It’s surreal to be doing this at home. I feel like it’s my duty to give back.
Behind the Scenes: Meet the Team
Behind every impactful event is a team of passionate, driven individuals, and more importantly, in this case, driven women who care deeply about the cause.
After speaking with Terrell, we also had the opportunity to meet Ms. Tenisha Irvin, the Programming & Philanthropy Consultant for the AJT Foundation. Her insight underscored a powerful truth: no impactful initiative is ever a one-person show.
MCB: When it comes to collaborating and raising funds, what does that process look like?
Irvin: “First, you need a cause that people can feel connected to when they read or hear about it. It’s not just about the language—you have to identify a real need in the community that isn’t being addressed. Once you do that, it’s all about storytelling.
Is it through skating? Is it through social media? You have to ask yourself: How do I get this message out and connect with the people who want to support it?”
Preparation, Purpose, and the Payoff
Just like athletes prepare for a season or a big game, organizing an event like this requires patience, precision, and vision. From coordinating partnerships to securing venues and booking talent, it’s no easy task. But when the lights come on and the music starts, every challenge fades into purpose.
“It was a beautiful experience, and the smiles and laughter at the end of the night proved that to be true.”
The Mr. Atlanta Roller Ball wasn’t just about skating; it was about creating joy, celebrating culture, and strengthening community ties across generations.
If you’d like to support the AJ Terrell Jr. Foundation and help empower Atlanta’s youth, visit ajtfoundation.org to donate or get involved.
Check out more images from the event.
Photo Credit: The AJ. Terrell Jr Foundation
