CELEBRATE “CHARLES FOLLIS DAY” FEBRUARY 3RD, BY DEMONSTRATING THE “POWER OF ONE”!
Charles Follis exemplified the “Power of One” with both grace and greatness. We want all in the community to share in one act that will help others transcend the adversities, challenges, and despair that they experience in life—one person, one family, one community at a time.
The power of one is the ability to recognize that one act—one act of kindness, one gesture of appreciation, one civic service, one gift or opportunity extended to those less fortunate, one donation to support a cherished cause, one enrichment of a young person, one moment of supporting the elderly, one instance of sharing your talent, one word of inspiration helping someone to dream beyond their circumstances, one expression of confidence in another— by the power of one—we can overcome any obstacle.
Ohio Laws | Ohio Revised Code - 5.265 | Charles Follis Day
Effective: September 28, 2018 Latest Legislation: House Bill 229 – 132nd General Assembly
The third day of February is designated “Charles Follis Day” in honor of the first African American professional football player who was born on that day in 1879, and who played for the Shelby Blues.
The Charles Follis Foundation in conjuction with Black History Month presents this important ask of each of you February 3rd, 2025 Charles Follis Day.
The Theme for Charles Follis Day is ‘POWER OF ONE.’
The ‘call to action or challenge’ on February 3rd, 2025 is for the individual person to dedicate 24 HOURS performing ONLY acts of kindness. No disdain, anger, nor negativity toward anyone, doing everything possible in your personal ‘POWER OF ONE’ for the entire 24-hour Charles Follis Day.
This can be done in any manner of ways defined by your ‘POWER OF ONE.’ Please share with your network and all social media platforms.
HAPPY 146th Birthday Charles!
FOLLIS
Greatness Transcends
The Book is a nonfiction novel of true facts, family experiences and events from slavery to glory in a generation. The story of Charles W. Follis chronicles how this pioneer blazed the trail for black Americans through adversity and triumph. His determination to excel in a new society and his chosen profession, while never compromising the morals and principles his family instilled in him. His strength, courage and endurance are just a few of the qualities he exemplified throughout his life that will inspire a nation of people for generations to come.
FOLLIS: GREATNESS TRANSCENDS is available now.
"The Shelby Athletic Association has secured the services of Charles Follis for this season. The contract has been signed and 20 football enthusiasts will be pleased to know Follis will be on the local team again this year. Although Follis played for two previous years, this would be the first year documented in which he received compensation. Follis plays halfback and there is no finer in the state."
-Frank S., Shelby Globe
Charles Follis
Historical Timelines
Birth of a Legend
Charles Follis was born on February 3, 1879, in Cloverdale, Virginia.
Football Career
Cofounder of Wooster HS football; named captain (undefeated team).
College Career
In the Spring enrolled in the College of Wooster.
The Shebly Blues
In 1902, Charles joined the Shelby Athletic Club football team (Shelby Blues).
The Charles Follis Foundation was founded in Columbus, Ohio in 2021. As the founders of this organization, we represent the descendants of the first Professional African American Football player Charles W. Follis.
Our purpose is to preserve and share the captivating legacy of Charles Follis. We hope that learning about his adversities, triumphs, and life lessons will be an inspiration to all.
The Charles Follis Foundation supports organizations that embody the same qualities of courage, strength, and endurance that Charles Follis exemplified. Our objective is to assist organizations that promote education, music, and sport. Many of these organizations are underserved, neglected, or lack the support needed to achieve their aspirations. Our Foundation will contribute resources to help these organizations succeed.
In harmony with the legacy of Charles Follis and the mission of the Charles Follis Foundation, we believe that with the proper support and access to resources, anyone can triumph over adversity just like Charles Follis.
