Nakobe Dean foundation gives out backpacks, financial education

Photo: A table with backpacks and dental hygiene supplies was set up at the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office headquarters. A financial information program was also offered. (Bob Bakken/desotocountynews.com)

July 26, 2025 – When youngsters get back to school Thursday, many of them will have their school supplies in brand new backpacks, obtained either at a store or at one of the many giveaways held in recent weeks across DeSoto County. Only a few of them can honestly say their new backpacks and supplies came from a Super Bowl champion, however.  

Horn Lake native and NFL linebacker Nakobe Dean may be grinding through training camp with the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, but his heart remains firmly rooted in his hometown and home county.

Saturday afternoon, Dean’s foundation, called Kind Hearts 4 Lyfe, hosted an event that provided more than just school supplies—it offered opportunity, encouragement, and education for families across DeSoto County and the surrounding area.

Held at the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office headquarters in Hernando, the event distributed 500 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to children preparing for the upcoming school year. Families from across the area turned out for the giveaway, available regardless of school district.

On a hot summer day, kids also received slushies courtesy of Sonic, while Aspen Dental contributed dental hygiene kits that included toothbrushes, toothpaste, and dental floss.

“We wanted to be a blessing to the community,” said Neketta Dean, Nakobe’s mother, who helped lead the event in his absence. “This was about more than school supplies—it was about making sure our children are equipped to succeed and that families feel supported.”

One of the most significant components of the event was its focus on financial education. A representative from Chase Bank was on-site to speak with both youth and parents about important financial topics—how to open a bank account, build and improve credit, start savings accounts, and plan for college expenses.

“We have to start them young,” Neketta said. “But this also helped some of the parents who are struggling and just want to know where to begin. The Chase representative was able to answer their questions right then and there.”

While Nakobe Dean couldn’t attend in person due to his current training camp commitments, his presence was deeply felt.

“This is very important to Nakobe,” his mother shared. “He always wants to give back. I’m glad that through his nonprofit foundation, we’re able to come into the community and do a lot more.”

Dean has made a point of staying engaged with his hometown community since entering the NFL. Earlier this year, he hosted a football camp in Mississippi that included both high school and college athletes, another effort to uplift and inspire young people.

As Nakobe Dean prepares for the upcoming NFL season, his efforts off the field continue to score points back home.