James Ihedigbo didn’t win the Super Bowl with the New England Patriots but this former UMass football standout is about to give back in a huge way. Ihedigbo founded the HOPE Africa Foundation in 2008 in an attempt to give back to the countries of Africa.  The HOPE (Helping Our People Excel) Africa Foundation attempts to provide educational services to the underprivileged children of Africa. The HOPE Africa Foundation gives deserving children the opportunity to gain a top-notch education in the United States through the use of scholarships. Ihedigbo’s experience with philanthropy is not a new one, as he is also an intricate part of his parents' Nigerian Agricultural Technical Community College.

Ihedigbo is coming back to UMass Amherst on Friday April 27, 2012 at 7:00pm and is joining forces with the Lit Mezze Lounge and Nightclub for a HOPE Africa Fundraiser. This will prove to be a great way to not only meet Ihedigbo as well as other NFL players but also help out a great charity. From 7pm-10pm there will be a meet and greet with the NFL players as well as a silent auction for items such as players jerseys.  This fundraiser will not only be a great time but will help to raise awareness to a great cause.

As if this wasn’t enough to draw the masses of Minutemen into Lit Mezze you can finally fulfill your lifelong dream of partying with an NFL player.  Beginning at 10pm, anyone who purchased a ticket will have the opportunity to hang out and party with Ihedigbo and the gang.  You all better come out and support a great cause and have the opportunity to party with a former UMass football player and a current New England Patriot.

Tickets are on sale now and are going fast. 

Early Bird Meet & Greet- $10, Early Bird Party with James- $10, Meet & Greet- $15