Breaking down the barriers surrounding mental health was a personal goal for the late owner of the Indianapolis Colts, who passed away last month at the age of 65.
It’s a priority for his family, too.
Jim Irsay’s youngest daughter, along with sisters Carlie Irsay-Gordon and Casey Foyt, has publicly addressed her struggles with anxiety. Irsay-Gordon serves as the CEO, with Foyt as executive vice president and Jackson as chief brand officer.
Jackson spearheads “Kicking The Stigma,” the family’s initiative aimed at raising awareness of mental health issues. This organization is dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding these disorders and has worked to enhance access to vital services both in Indiana and across the country.
Since the program’s inception in 2020, the Colts have contributed over $30 million to nonprofits and organizations working in the mental health sector.
“To me, the stigma is almost synonymous with how we, as a society, approach the issue because it stems from prejudice and judgment shaped by cultural narratives over time,” Jackson stated. “We need to change that conversation. With that change comes the potential for significant progress in areas such as insurance coverage and how healthcare systems treat these issues, as well as how companies support their employees.”
Irsay was known for his candid discussions about his own struggles, hoping to motivate and uplift others through his journey to sobriety.
Jackson is committed to continuing that dialogue.
“I’m incredibly proud of the legacy he has left, and I aspire to make him proud,” Jackson expressed.
She will be honored by a Millennial and Gen Z-focused mental health tech nonprofit for her pioneering efforts in mental health advocacy. Jackson is set to receive the organization’s inaugural “Sports Visionary of the Year” Award at the third annual World Mental Health Day Gala on October 9 in New York. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell will present the award at an event that brings together celebrities, executives, and cultural figures, including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
“When we convened to select the recipient of this first award, it was unanimous that Kalen and the Colts should be recognized for their steadfast commitment to mental health in sports,” noted Phillip Schermer, founder and CEO of Project Healthy Minds. “They are not just discussing the issue; they are taking meaningful action. They’ve been leading the way, setting an example for all sports and leagues.”
For Jackson, who is also on the nonprofit’s Board of Directors, the mission is straightforward.
“It’s about connecting with people and showing compassion to change the world for the better; that’s my motivation,” she remarked.
In 2019, the NFL and NFL Players Association mandated that every team have a licensed behavioral health clinician on staff to bolster mental health resources.
The Colts have gone a step further, recently hiring a clinician to work with front-office staff and coaches as well.
Image Source: Project 44 @ YouTube
