BALTIMORE (WJZ)—Ray Lewis’ legacy reaches way beyond the football field.  For almost two decades, he has given his time, money and love to all of Baltimore.

Mary Bubala reports on his charitable contributions to Charm City.

Whether it’s giving out turkeys during the holiday season or backpacks before the start of school, Ray Lewis has always been aware of the power he has on young lives.

“That’s just love and hope and faith in whatever comes along with it, and when you touch one of these kids then you realize why I do come out and keep doing this because that’s my motivation,” Lewis said.

Other players say Lewis has set the gold standard in giving back.

“That’s a guy I look up to and seeing the great things he’s done on the field and also in the community,” said Torrey Smith.

Thousands of disadvantaged young people have been helped through the Ray Lewis 52 Foundation.

And at events, Lewis always gives 100 percent of himself.

“I have to get up every day and go to work. Some days I don’t feel right. Sometimes I feel sad. Sometimes I feel glad, but I get up in the morning anyway. You know? That’s what I want to challenge all of us to do,” Lewis said.

A street bears his name in Baltimore because Ray Lewis is Baltimore–impassioned, caring, real.

“Baltimore, I can say many things, but what I do want to say is that I love you all with every inch of my soul – cheers, thank you, thank you,” Lewis said.

Thank you, Ray Lewis, from all of us.