49ers bring NFL’s Inspire Change initiative to San Quentin

October 25, 2024

San Francisco 49ers representatives visited San Quentin as part of the NFL Inspire Change initiative.

The San Francisco 49ers visited San Quentin as part of the NFL’s Inspire Change initiative to promote social justice and criminal justice reform.

During their Oct. 15 visit, current players and alumni hosted a discussion with incarcerated men in the chapel about resilience, redemption, and second chances. The conversation was led by team Chaplain Pastor Earl Smith.

“Everybody is human, and you get to see that (with these visits).”
Nick Bosa, 49ers defensive end

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“Hearing their stories and what they want to do, we are trying to connect from the outside world. What they are doing in here, with all of the great programs they have, and making sure that we are staying good on those offerings, so we can make the world a better place,” said Spencer Burford, guard for San Francisco 49ers.

“My favorite part was some of the conversations that I had with certain guys, hearing how they ended up here, what they have learned and been through since they have been here,” said Nick Bosa, defensive end for the 49ers. “Seeing them with their families and seeing the dynamic of how you might end up in a certain spot in life, but everybody is human, and you get to see that.”

Following the discussion, players toured the prison and learned about the K-9 program offered to incarcerated people.

A team member poses for a photo with a San Quentin officer.

“It’s great camaraderie for everyone when they come in because they are your sport idols. You look up to them. It’s great they can interact with the incarcerated because they watch them on TV but seeing them up close and personal is on another level,” said yard officer Nicole Porras.

Incarcerated individuals expressed their gratitude during the meet and greet.

“Being in a setting like this really makes me feel like a human being. It takes away from all the negativity that surrounds us. It’s just a blessing,” said Ronald, an incarcerated person.

Lastly, they visited with children and their incarcerated fathers to talk, eat and distribute gifts to them and their families.

“To be able to experience this with my niece and her being a 49er fan is amazing, it really is. I am happy to be a part of it,” said Jorge, another incarcerated person.

“To be honest it feels magical, and like a miracle that I get to be here with my uncle. I am really happy I am here today, and I wouldn’t change anything for this,” said Jorge’s niece.

“For the kids, I would say your circumstances don’t end up being your reality. Anything is possible. If you got a dream, dream big and go with the dream. Believe in it,” said Burford.

Attendees included 49ers ownership Jenna and Mara York, and the following 49ers players:

Nicholas Bosa
Dre GreenLaw
Spencer Burford
Donald Strickland
Bryant Young

Learn more about NFL’s Inspire Change initiative on their website.

Video by Chris Medina, director, TV Communications Center (specialist)
Story by Ashton Harris, information officer
Office of Public and Employee Communications