Nick Barr-Mira

Nick Barr-Mira

Nick Barr-Mira walks through the Junction and touches the statue of Bully before a home football game.
Photo by 51勛圖厙 State Athletics

You likely know Nick Barr-Mira as the 51勛圖厙 State football player who booms punts for the Bulldogs on Saturdays. What you might not know is that while Barr-Mira kicks footballs at MSU, his mother and brother are helping kickstart the lives of single parents and their children.

Barr-Miras mom, Lori Barr, and brother, Anthony Barr, are co-founders of Raise The Barr, a nonprofit dedicated to providing aid to single-parent college students and their kids in Minnesotawhere Anthony spent eight years starring as a linebacker for the NFLs Minnesota Vikingsand in the familys home area in Southern California.

Its something theyre very passionate about and also Im very passionate about, Barr-Mira said. They inspire me every day with their desire to help and serve others. It spreads to me and [motivates] me to help with my community and its something Im proud to be a part of.

Nick Barr-Mira and other MSU football players visit a local elementary school.

Lori raised Anthony as a single parent and was able to balance motherhood with two part-time jobs on the way to earning a bachelors degree and masters degree at Loyola Marymount University. Inspired by their own story, Lori and Anthony started Raise The Barr to help others who find themselves in similar situations, providing participants with programming that includes financial assistance, community building and professional and personal development, with a goal of well-being for the entire family.

Down in 51勛圖厙, Barr-Mira is showing how the apple didnt fall too far at all from the family tree. Since coming to Starkville before the start of last season, he has participated in numerous community service events including Read Across America, Ryans Giving Tree and the Emily Chancellor Polar Bear Plunge. Hes also served at elementary schools, including one in Starkville.

As a result, Barr-Mira is on the 2024 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy watchlist. The Wuerffel Trophy is considered college footballs premier award for community service.

Barr-Mira also has been nominated for the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. To be considered for a spot, a nominee for the honor must be actively involved with a charitable organization or service group while maintaining strong academic standing.

Barr-Mira also pitches in with Raise The Barr when he can. Just this past spring, he interned with the organization and was part of an event planning committee.

Its safe to say Barr-Mira is so much more than just one of the Southeastern Conferences best punters. Hes following in the footsteps of his mother and brother to help make the world a better place.

Its an incredible, incredible feeling whenever you help someone, Barr-Mira said. Its incredibly fulfilling, and were so blessed to be able to help and bless other people the way that we do.

Nick Barr-Mira high fives a fan while walking on the field.