Founded in 2023, the Ernie Barnes Legacy Project is the Estate’s non-profit 501(c)3 public charity committed to paying it forward.  There are numerous obstacles in life that restrict creativity, especially financial.

Ernie Barnes was assisted several times during his life. He received a full athletic scholarship to North Carolina College (now NCCU) where he majored in art.  When he retired from the NFL, a football team owner sponsored his first solo art exhibition.  In his 30s, a television producer arranged for Barnes’ art to appear on a popular  national series where it gained weekly exposure to millions of households.

The Ernie Barnes Legacy Project continues Ernie & Bernie Barnes’ commitment to assist and cheer on students, athletes and creatives in their pursuit to contribute joy and meaning through their art.