Israel Idonije

Israel Idonije is a former professional football player who made a name for himself in the National Football League (NFL), playing as a defensive end for teams including the Cleveland Browns, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, and New York Giants. His 11-year NFL career saw remarkable achievements, such as leading the league in blocked punts/field goals in 2005, 2006, and 2007 and being a member of the Chicago Bears NFC Championship team, which competed in the 2006 Super Bowl. Idonije's influence extends to the world of sports beyond football. He is part of the ownership group for the Chicago Red Stars of the National Women's Soccer League, officially joining on March 1, 2021.

Idonije's entrepreneurial spirit has led him to find several successful businesses off the field. In 2009, he founded Athlitacomics, a company specializing in blending sports with comics, which birthed the comic series "The Protectors." He also started Blessed Communion, which provides pre-filled communion cups and wafers. Further branching out, Idonije established The Bureau Chicago, a creative agency providing office, meeting, and business event space in the South Loop. He also co-founded the medical question-and-answer service "Ask The Doctor."

Idonije's commitment to community service led him to establish iF Charities, a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization, in 2007. The organization has significantly contributed to the lives of over 10,000 youth in Chicago, Winnipeg, and West Africa. He also launched the "DreamKidz Love" book series, with the first book, "I Love Me (Izzy Cover)," released on January 24, 2017.

Idonije has received numerous honors and awards for his community service and philanthropic efforts. These include the NFL’s JB Award and award for Global Dedication in April 2008, the Ed Block Courage Award in 2009, the Bears "Walter Payton Man of the Year" nominee in 2009 and 2010, and recognition as a Points of Light Awardee by Barack Obama and George HW Bush at the White House in 2013. His contribution to society was further recognized when he was inducted into the Order of Manitoba by Prince Charles in May 2014.