Participants of SOAR365’s Adult Day Support program at Staples Mill had the opportunity to hear from a special guest on the morning of July 23 as part of a recently launched Career Day initiative: Zuriel Smith, a former player in the National Football League (NFL).
“The reason I came is because I serve individuals who have developmental disabilities,” says Zuriel. “I have several group homes in the local area – it’s something I’m very passionate about and any opportunity I have to speak directly to people who I may be able to help is a privilege.”
A Richmond native and graduate of both Atlee High School and Hampton University, Zuriel was drafted in the 6th round of the 2003 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys.
In his NFL debut, playing on Monday Night Football against the New York Giants, Zuriel returned five kickoffs for 120 yards. Across the entire 2003 season, he led all NFC rookies in punt return average (7.1 yards), earning All-rookie honors from Pro Football Weekly as a return specialist.
Zuriel explained to the participants that attitude issues began to hurt chances of sticking in the NFL, even after having such a strong start to his professional career. The Cowboys cut him from their roster in 2004 and, after brief stints with the Giants and the New England Patriots, his time playing football came to an end.
To make matters worse, the physical nature of football left him with severe nerve damage that took away his ability to walk for three years. But now he walks with his head held high.
Zuriel spoke honestly about his challenging experience to the participants and SOAR365 staff in attendance, explaining how important humility is to being successful. He encouraged each of them to never give up, no matter how difficult or hopeless things seem in the moment.
To cement his own success story, he returned to his hometown and founded Zuriel, LLC which operates Zuriel Residential Services.
The organization offers a caring, compassionate, and inclusive home life environment to each of its residents, all of whom have developmental disabilities, spread across six homes – four in Richmond, one in Virginia Beach and one in Roanoke.
The highs and lows of Zuriel’s journey resonated with the participants who were in attendance.
“I really liked being able to hear about his career and everything he does in the community,” says program participant, Scotty. “I think it’s great that he helps people out the way he does.”
“It was cool to have an NFL player come through and speak with us and visit with us,” adds fellow program participant, Kevin.
While it wasn’t the first Career Day event at SOAR365, it was undoubtedly one we’ll never forget.
“It’s important to give our participants a different perspective,” notes Vandal Truong, Director of Adult Day Support. “We want participants to take away lessons about professionalism, respect and integrity in their work . To have someone like Zuriel Smith give their time brings a lot of attention to the topic.”
To learn more about SOAR365’s Adult Day Support program, visit soar365.org.