Bradley Pinion Leads Falcons Delegation to Dominican Republic with Compassion International

Atlanta Falcons punter Bradley Pinion recently led a group of Falcons players, coaches, and staff on a transformative trip to the Dominican Republic in partnership with Compassion International, a global child development organization dedicated to releasing children from poverty in Jesus’ name.

The journey marked a historic moment—not just for the Falcons, but for Compassion International as well—as it was the first time a professional sports organization traveled as a group to actively participate in the organization’s on-the-ground mission work.

The four-day visit included Falcons President Greg Beadles, Head Coach Raheem Morris, seven players, and additional staff and spouses. Together, the group explored Compassion’s initiatives, which are implemented through 234 local church partners throughout the Dominican Republic. These programs support over 62,000 children, aiming to shield them from threats like crime, gang violence, drug activity, trafficking, and exploitation.

“We’ve never done anything like this before and I’m so grateful we had this opportunity,” said Beadles. “We are a values-driven organization both on and off the field, and we’ve always wanted to be a positive, impactful force for good in communities.”

During their visit, the Falcons delegation engaged in a range of activities with the children, including a lively baseball game and football drills. They also made personal home visits to families in need, witnessing firsthand the transformative impact of Compassion’s work.

Pinion, who has long been involved with Compassion International, was the driving force behind organizing the trip. In 2023, he and his wife, Kaeleigh, visited Compassion survival centers in Tanzania, which offer prenatal care, food, clean water, and medical aid to mothers and babies. That powerful experience inspired Pinion to launch the “Punts for Purpose” campaign during the 2023 NFL season, pledging $1,000 for every punt inside the 20-yard-line to support Compassion’s “The Fight to First” initiative. Other punters across the league joined the cause.

“It’s what we are passionate about,” Pinion shared. “We just want to bring other people along because we see the impact Compassion’s having. We want other people to see it, support it and give that same fire that we have.”

Through holistic development, child protection training, and safe environments that include sports and educational activities, Compassion International continues to empower children and families—now with the active support of the Atlanta Falcons.