Terrence & Torry Holt

From small town roots to award-winning careers in the National Football League, Terrence and Torry Holt know what it takes to win. But it hasn’t all been easy. Hard work, determination and a competitive spark made them who they are today. Since their retirement from the NFL, Terrence and Torry have moved back to Raleigh, NC with their families to start a new phase in their lives. Their company, Holt Brothers, Inc., consists of Holt Brothers Construction, Holt Brothers Football, and the Holt Brothers Foundation.

As young children, they experienced the unthinkable — their mom was diagnosed with cancer. Her treatment and their fears for her future dominated their young lives. After their mom passed away, the brothers started a foundation in her memory to support young kids with a parent with cancer. The Foundation’s main program, KidsCan!, provides education, emotional support, peer empathy and inspiration during monthly group meetings. Working with local hospitals, facilitators help kids understand the disease and deal with their emotions. The kids benefit by knowing they are not alone. The Foundation also supports Camp Kesem, a sleep-away camp for children ages 6–16, all of whom have a parent with cancer.

“We had sports as an outlet when we were growing up in Gibsonville. But many of these children don’t have an outlet. Often, they become isolated or they act out. Their grades slip. They have trouble focusing in school,” says Torry Holt. “Family-centered care helps heal the whole family, and addresses the needs of the child.”

Besides working with children through the Holt Brothers Foundation, Terrence and Torry also run an annual football camp which teaches young players basic football skills, as well as sportsmanship and teamwork. While the football skills that are learned throughout the week are important, Terrence and Torry also mentor participants on life skills to aid in their personal development. 

For the first time in 2017, the Holt Brothers football camp will offer a one-week program, in partnership with the City of Raleigh’s Parks & Recreation Department, at John Chavis Memorial Park in southeast Raleigh. Up to 40 scholarships are being offered to young people who might not otherwise be able to attend.

Outside of work, Terrence and Torry are involved in their community. Torry serves on the capital campaign committee for the Southeast Raleigh YMCA – a catalytic project to improve the lives of kids living in poverty. He’s also the offensive coach for the Heritage High School football team. Both he and Terrence speak to kids at area schools, Boys and Girls Clubs, and special programs such as Highclimbers — all with the goal of inspiring young people to be all they can be. 

“We strive to be role models, to have a positive influence, to use our celebrity for the greater good,” says Terrence. “Our KidsCan! program is named that for a reason. We believe that kids can be anything they want to be.”