Cam Newton's charitable foundation gave a $150,000 cash gift to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools in an effort to help boost school spirit and student achievement, according to reports.  

The quarterback's foundation made the donation as part of their "School Pride Program" initiative. The cash gift is donated with the intent to help develop customized programs to enhance the cultural environment of the schools, as well as boost student achievement, student engagement, and advance health and wellness, according to The Christian Post.

The $150,000 will be divided among Bradley, Randolph and Thomasboro Academy middle schools, according to a statement made by the foundation. Each school will receive $50,000 from the funds.

The Charlotte Observer detailed how the Carolina Panthers player personally visited schools in desperate need of renovations and noticed that Randolph Middle's gym only seats 450 people. However, Newton wanted more room for students to "yell and scream," according to the report.  

"You come to grips with what's important ... I want to continually let my impact grow on this community," Newton said.

Sports video game developer EA Sports is a partner in Newton's program. Newton announced the donation on Tuesday in front of 450 students from the three schools crammed into Randolph's school gym. 

"It's not something I was forced to do," Newton, 23, told Heraldonline.com about the donation. "I wanted to do that. I want to make it cool to be smart. Make it cool to show yourself and show people who you really are." 

Born in Atlanta, Ga., Newton is the third player ever to be awarded the Heisman Trophy, win a national championship, and be the first overall pick in the NFL draft all in one year.  It was done before by Leon Hart in 1950 and Angelo Bertelli  in 1944.  

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