Derek Carr will always have a strong connection with the Red Wave. Back in 2013, when Carr was not in the NFL, the future Raiders QB was blessed with a baby boy with his wife, Heather Carr. However, since his son Dallas was born with intestinal malrotation, a life-threatening condition that can cut off blood supply to the intestines, the Carrs had no option but to keep their firstborn in the Valley Children’s NICU for 23 days and save his life with three surgeries.

For three years, this Fresno State native never truly got the chance to express his gratitude to the hospital that saved his son Dallas’ life. But in 2016, the then-Raiders QB, along with his wife Heather, launched DC4KIDS—a nonprofit to fund immediate needs of more than 1.3 million children in the city, providing them with the best possible care.

Later in 2021, the former Saints quarterback also donated $75,000, matching the members’ donation, during the annual DC4KIDS touchdown. So, when Carr decided to retire last month and has now returned to his hometown, it was not surprising that Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer honored both Derek and his wife with an official proclamation at the City Council.

“Today, I had the honor of presenting a proclamation to Derek and Heather in recognition of the incredible work they continue to do for our community,” Dyer shared on Instagram. “Through their nonprofit, DC4KIDS, they’re creating free, inclusive recreational and athletic opportunities for children with physical disabilities and mobility challenges, helping every kid feel seen, supported, and empowered.”

June 12 will now forever be called the Derek and Heather Carr Day in Fresno. It was a hometown salute to two people who never forgot where they came from. Carr’s legacy on the field may include 35,000+ passing yards and a handful of unforgettable comeback drives. But off the field, his work with DC4KIDS is already looking like his most important win. He and Heather, now parents to four beautiful children, are building something generational, not just charitable.

As Dyer put it, “They continue to be shining examples of service, heart, and faith right here in Fresno.” This wasn’t a one-off appearance or staged photo op. It was recognition of years of steady, impactful work. It’s rare for a quarterback to retire and become even more relevant. But Derek Carr is doing just that, trading touchdowns for transformation, and turning the roar of stadiums into the joyful cheers of kids who finally get to play.

The city won his heart when his eldest, Dallas, needed three surgeries. Everyone he met was concerned about the young boy. So, when he was looking for a city to settle down, the city was first on his mind.

Derek Carr’s initiative for Fresno wins hearts

The Carrs returned to the city this spring and plan to send their Dallas, Deker, Deakon, and Brooklyn Mae through Fresno Christian Schools. And after achieving his childhood dreams, he wants to give back to the community. His wife, Heather, also gave her support, making sure he was not alone on the new journey.

DC4KIDS is a movement to make sports and recreation accessible for every child, especially those with physical disabilities and mobility challenges. While most youth programs focus on performance, DC4KIDS wants children to feel valuable. The Carrs are making sure that no kid in Fresno feels like they have to sit on the sidelines. “It was such a special place and a special time for us that there was really no decision. We knew at some point we were back here,” he said while revealing his love for the city and its people.

Carr’s connection to Fresno runs deep. He starred at Fresno State, became a symbol of pride for the Central Valley, and now he’s putting just as much effort into giving back as he did leading game-winning drives. Derek Carr is setting a standard for what athlete-led community service should look like: hands-on, heartfelt, and homegrown.

His NFL story may be complete, but his next chapter, one of faith, family, and fierce compassion, is just beginning.