Saints' Jamaal Williams Using Passion of Naruto to Launch Foundation

Jamaal Williams is launching a new foundation to raise money for disadvantaged children, with a special auction taking place on Tuesday that is right up his alley.

Saints running back Jamaal Williams is launching his foundation next week to raise money for disadvantaged children. Williams is co-hosting a livestream shopping event with the voice actor behind Naruto Uzumaki to raise money for the Jamaal Williams Foundation. The cause is closely aligned with the story of Naruto, which is Williams' favorite anime franchise.

The livestream event will take place on Tuesday, May 9 at 7 p.m. CT on Whatnot, and will auction off a variety of Naruto collectibles, including Naruto Funko Pop! signed by Flanagan, Naruto action figures, Naruto Vol. 1 Manga, Naruto Complete Series Manga Box Sets, Naruto Headbands, and a pair of custom Naruto Nike Air Force 1’s designed for Williams by Sal ‘Kickstradomis’ Amezcua.

Naruto Nike Air Force 1's

Naruto Nike Air Force 1's

All proceeds will go toward the Jamaal Williams Foundation – a new non-profit founded by Williams to provide financial and community support to assist in youth development and help meet the needs of those facing food insecurities. The livestream auction on Whatnot marks the first fundraising event for the foundation. The two will discuss his love for Naruto and celebrate fans of the manga franchise.

Items for auction will include , one of the world’s most influential sneaker customizers for athletes and celebrities. Williams commissioned two unique pairs of Air Force 1’s featuring Naruto artwork on one pair and Naruto character Sasuke Uchiha on the other – one of which will be auctioned during the livestream.

“The stories and principles of Naruto have been hugely influential for me, both on and off the field. Naruto faced a lot of adversity and was able to move beyond that and become this powerful force of positivity and kindness,” Jamaal Williams said.

“Outside of Naruto’s impact on my own life, I have so much love for the Naruto and Anime communities. These are my people. I’m excited to partner with Whatnot and Maile to celebrate and rally fans around the franchise, all for a great cause I’m passionate about.”