Vincent Rey starts REYspect Academy to mentor middle schoolers

Vincent Rey has long been one of the Cincinnati Bengals’ best leaders in the community.

In addition to be a solid linebacker on the field, Rey continues to be an outstanding example for young men and women in his community. Much of his previous volunteer time has been spent with United Way and Lighthouse Youth Services, an agency dedicated to advancing the dignity and well-being of children and families in need.

Rey has also helped out with the Marvin Lewis Community Fund’s "Learning is Cool" program, an educational reward program recognizing students for strong academic performance.

Now, Rey is tackling the challenge of teaching middle schoolers about respect through his new program, REYspect Academy. He’s doing so with the help of Master Provisions, which facilitates the distribution of donated food to more than 150 non-profit organizations that help feed the hungry in the Tri-State area.

FOX 19’s Joe Danneman has more on this story, which you can watch here.

Fellow Bengals Joshua Shaw and P.J. Dawson have assisted Rey with this program.

Rey isn’t afraid to tackle any issue, no matter how little or big it may seem. He’s been very involved in the Aruna Project, which he even penned an editorial about in the Enquirer two years ago.

For all of his efforts, Rey has been nominated for several awards over the years that recognize work in the community. That includes being nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award as well as the Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award.