Doug Baldwin named Paul G. Allen Humanitarian Award winner for Sports Star of the Year Awards

Baldwin was instrumental in the long effort to open a community center in Renton, which is expected to open in late June.

SEATTLE - Former Seahawks receiver Doug Baldwin has been named this year's recipient of the Paul G. Allen Humanitarian Award, presented by Microsoft, at this year's Seattle Sports Star of the Year Awards, which will take place on February 28 at the Westin Hotel in Seattle. This year's award ceremony is sold out, but will be exclusively seen on FOX 13 on March 20.

"I am honored to accept the Paul G. Allen Humanitarian Award on behalf of the various communities and organizations I have the privilege to serve," said Baldwin. "I look forward to joining the other award winners and nominees in celebrating their hard work, while continuing to promote the need for access, opportunity and a sense of belonging across our region."

Baldwin joined FOX 13 Sports Director Aaron Levine on "Seattle Sports Live" Sunday night to discuss his reaction to the award, along with the challenges of trying to make an impact in the local community. Baldwin has spearheaded a years-long effort to open the Family First Community Center in Renton, working with the city of Renton, the Renton School District, and many other partners on a project that is expected to open at the end of June.

He also helped create the NFL Players Coalition, which improves social justice and racial equality through advocacy, awareness, education and resource allocation. The coalition has a projected $41 million in grants and financial contributions across several organizations.

"Doug truly exemplifies the spirit of the Humanitarian Award and its namesake, Paul G. Allen," said Seattle Sports Commission President and CEO Beth Knox. "We are so proud to honor Doug’s tireless efforts to serve our community and recognize his leadership in creating more equitable opportunities across our region."

Baldwin is also the founder and CEO of Vault 89 Ventures, a firm that invests in people and ideas that deconstruct barriers historically displacing many in the community.

Watch Levine's full interview with Baldwin in the player above.