A mother’s love is like no other. Raised by a single mom, star Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr can relate to that sentiment better than most. Anthony’s mom Lori was faced with a difficult situation when she became pregnant with Anthony during her junior year of college. Even worse the father wasn’t there to provide any support.
“I was going to be single, raising a little boy, and a biracial boy,” Lori Barr said. “I was terrified. My heart is pounding now just thinking about the feeling I had then.”
With the help of her parents Jean and John, Lori raised Anthony. When Anthony was a year and a half old, Lori returned to college and completed her degree. She financed her education working two part-time jobs and taking out student loans.
When she wasn’t working or going to class, she was cheering on her son as he excelled on the basketball court. It would take some persuasion for Anthony to try his hand at the sport he has since dominated in.
“She might even love the game even more than me and that’s crazy to think of,” Anthony Barr said. “She loves the game. I love the game. And I really got that passion from her. “
Now entering his third season as a Minnesota Viking, Barr is using his platform to support and motivate single moms by establishing The Anthony Barr 55 Foundation where the mission is to provide financial support to single mothers wishing to further their education, just as his mom did.
“Our goal is to create a society where single mothers can pursue higher education, likely changing the trajectory of their lives and the lives of their children.”
Now working together as President and Vice President of the Anthony Barr 55 Foundation, Lori and Anthony are crafting a legacy that will live long after Anthony’s career in the NFL is over.
