University of Alabama linebacker and Eufaula native, Courtney Upshaw, has joined forces with other Eufaula, Ala., residents to establish “The 41 Fund,” to benefit victims of the recent tornado disaster that affected much of the state on Wednesday, April 27. The fund is named for Courtney’s jersey number 41.

Donations can be made to The 41 Fund at any branch of BankTrust, with all money collected to go to meet the needs of storm victims. Checks may be made payable to BankTrust or The 41 Fund.

Upshaw also made two personal appearances to raise money and collect supplies for storm victims, signing autographs and taking photos with fans at the Eufaula Walmart May 5 and at the Alex City Walmart May 6.

Courtney was recently awarded the Sylvester Croom Commitment to Excellence Award after his outstanding performance at the University of Alabama Spring “A Day” game.  He was also awarded the Most Valuable Player award after a strong game against Michigan State in the 2011 Capital One Bowl game.

“I feel fortunate to have a roof over my head, to have a warm meal, a hot shower, when there are so many people right now who don’t have anything,” Courtney said. “How can you not reach out to them? People lost their homes, their families, everything. I just really felt it was important for me to do what I could to help other people, and to encourage others to help.”

To learn more about The 41 Fund, watch the videos below:

Additional links:

Eufaula Tribune
Soul of the Tide _ The Alexander City Outlook
Dothan Eagle _ Crimson Tide standout Courtney Upshaw returns to Eufaula, helps tornado victims
Tuscaloos News – TideSports
Bama Online – UA’s Courtney Upshaw plans visit to help tornado victims