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Georgia Defensive Back Inks NIL Deal with Gibson to Benefit Mental Health

Dan Jackson partners with iconic guitar brand's philanthropic arm to support suicide prevention

Georgia defensive back and avid guitar player Dan Jackson has channeled his passion for music and supporting the community for his latest NIL collaboration. The two-time National Champion has partnered with iconic instrument brand Gibson's philanthropic arm Gibson Gives and local Athens nonprofit Nuçi's Space to support suicide prevention.

Through this collaboration with Jackson, Gibson Gives is donating 17 items - including guitars, pedals, headphones, and more - to Nuçi's Space, the Athens-based mental health non-profit and musicians resource center with a profound mission to prevent suicide. Additionally, Gibson Gives is donating $5,000 and an opioid emergency response kit to Nuçi's Space. 

"In the convergence of sports and music, we discover the rhythm of compassion, the melody of giving, and the harmony of healing," said Erica Krusen, Global Executive Director of Gibson Gives. "Together, we are proud to support the efforts of Nuçi's Space and their commitment to supporting musicians and providing vital resources to the music community of Athens."

Gibson is an American-made instrument brand with an impressive history spanning 130-years. In 2019, Gibson launched Gibson Gives, which has already made impactful donations exceeding $46 million in value, ranging from guitars and related resources, aimed at bringing people and music together. 

This partnership is an authentic match for Jackson, who has a deep passion for music. Outside of the football field and classroom, Jackson is often seen playing guitar with his friends and writing music with his band. His combination of athleticism and musical talent is a personification of Athens' culture, bringing together the city's appreciation for sports and music. 

"We're very excited to work with Dan and Gibson on this opportunity," said Adam Wayton, Operations Manager at Nuçi's Space. "Everything we do at Nuçi's Space is in an effort to help creatives and musicians get access to mental health care and prevent suicide. With this donation, we'll be able to share some awesome Gibson stuff with our community of artists and youth programs, raise awareness and money for our cause, and make a lot of noise!"  

Gaines Group Activations, an Athens-based NIL brand management firm, facilitated the partnership.

"We are excited to capitalize on this remarkable opportunity with Dan Jackson, Gibson/Gibson Gives, and Nuçi's Space," said Cannon Gaines, Founder & CEO of Gaines Group Activations. "This isn't just an activation; it's a testament to the power of music, sports, and community coming together for a meaningful cause."