Thad’s Story

Thaddeus Bullard entered this world as a statistic. He was the product of rape; his mother was only 12 years old when she delivered him. Thad grew up in poverty, often times hungry, sometimes living in homeless shelters, and other times sleeping in cars. When they could afford an apartment, they couldn’t pay the electricity. His family inevitably would be evicted because they were behind in their rent. He always knew when that day came because he would walk home from school to find the doors bolted shut. Kids made fun of his too-small shoes, tattered pants, and taped-together glasses.

He was angry and pugilistic and was told boys like him wound up dead in or in jail by the time they were 16. That’s what everyone expected to happen to him. But in his teenage years, random teachers started to believe in him; the Sheriff’s Boys Ranch took an interest in him; his community began investing in him.

Thad became the number one high school football recruit in the nation; graduated from the University of Florida with two degrees, served as student body vice president, played in the NFL, and is now known as WWE Superstar Titus O’Neil. He was not a bad kid. He was born into bad circumstances. He works to change the narrative of the less fortunate so that everyone around him sees the value in others, and they also see the value in themselves. Thad created the Bullard Family Foundation to shine the spotlight on communities and people in need. Thad is a connector and a collaborator, bringing together all those who can do more to create a collective impact that is much greater than what we can achieve alone.

From inspiring children to exhibit good moral character to showering lonely senior citizens with gifts and good cheer during the holidays, Thaddeus’ giving spirit not only touches children and families throughout the Tampa Bay area and beyond, but he inspires and empowers others to do good as well. Thad goes out into the community every single day looking to make a difference.

The spirit of his kindness can be felt at local high schools, where he has inspired hundreds of children to go to college; at the homes of young cancer patients where his 6’6”, 250-lb frame can be found on the floor, playing video games; and on the streets of Tampa, where he dishes out food to the homeless and offers hope for the weary.

The Bullard Family Foundation is the vehicle that will push us to do more. Through BFF, we transform communities by creating impactful moments for children and families everywhere.