The Jordan McNair Foundation was created to honor the life of Jordan McNair, a bright, determined student-athlete whose future was cut short by heat stroke — a tragedy that should never happen.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: to save young lives by raising awareness, educating communities, and driving change in sports safety.
Every program we deliver, every family we support, and every coach we train moves us closer to a future where no athlete is lost to preventable heat illness.
Our Story
The Jordan McNair Foundation was established in memory of Jordan McNair, a beloved son, teammate, and friend who tragically passed away in June 2018 from heat stroke sustained during football practice at the University of Maryland.
The Foundation is led by Jordan’s parents, Marty and Tonya, alongside a dedicated board of directors, medical advisors, and community advocates who share a single goal: protecting the lives of young athletes.
His legacy fuels our mission: to ensure no family has to endure such a preventable loss again.
From a moment of heartbreak, we have built a movement of hope — advocating for awareness, education, and prevention of heat-related illnesses among student athletes nationwide.
Our Mission
The Jordan McNair Foundation is dedicated to:
Raising Awareness
About the dangers of heat stroke and heat illness in athletics.
Educating
Athletes, parents, and coaches on recognition, prevention, and emergency response.
Advocating
For stronger safety protocols and policies that prioritize the well-being of every student athlete.
Our Vision
A future where every athlete, regardless of age, background, or sport, trains and competes in environments where their health and safety come first.
Why We Exist
Heat stroke is the leading cause of preventable death among student athletes. Too often, tragedies occur because of missed warning signs or delayed response.
We believe that knowledge saves lives. With the right education, equipment, and protocols, heat illness deaths can be eliminated.
What We Do
Our Impact
Since 2018, The Jordan McNair Foundation has:
- Reached thousands of athletes, parents, and coaches through our K.O.B.Y. educational programs.
- Partnered with schools and youth organizations across the country.
- Helped advance policy changes that require life-saving safety measures on all fields of play.
Each step forward honors Jordan’s memory and brings us closer to a future where prevention is the rule, not the exception.
Our Partners in the Movement
Get Involved
Jordan’s legacy is one of strength, resilience, and community. By supporting The Jordan McNair Foundation, you become part of the movement to protect student athletes everywhere.
- Donate to fund education, advocacy, and resources.
- Invite us to speak at your school, team, or community event.
- Spread awareness by sharing Jordan’s story.