Henry and his wife spent 11 days in Kenya in what he called a "life-changing" experience this March, combining a long-desired African safari with a firsthand look at International Justice Mission's work combatting human trafficking and violence in vulnerable communities.
"Everything they're doing in the world just aligned with everything I believe in," Henry said. "But it was so cool to actually put names to the faces I've seen on flyers and newsletters… To actually have boots on the ground and meet them and see the change they impact on a daily basis was really special."
The couple began their journey in Nairobi, visiting IJM staff and learning how the organization partners with local law enforcement, courts and social workers to rescue victims and rebuild lives. They later traveled to Mombasa, spent time in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy and finished in the Maasai Mara, balancing cultural immersion with candid moments of reflection.
One of the most impactful moments came during a lunch with survivors of violence and human trafficking — many close in age to the 29-year-old tight end.
"They have been through so much," Henry said. "The work that IJM is doing in Kenya and across the globe is making ripples that people can't even understand until they see it."
Henry's passion for the cause began in high school, and years later, he and Parker began supporting IJM financially, drawn by the nonprofit's commitment to not only rescue victims, but empower local communities and justice systems to break cycles of abuse.
While a bucket-list safari capped off the trip — complete with a sunrise hot air balloon ride despite Henry's fear of heights — he emphasized the adventure was always secondary to the mission.
"It gave me a sense of gratitude, first and foremost," he said. "It's cool to think we could be such a blessing to those people through the simplest act of us just being there."
Henry says he's still processing everything he saw and learned, but one thing is clear: the trip strengthened his resolve to continue advocating for those without a voice.
In doing so, whether it's with the Patriots Foundation, Communities for People, or IJM, he hopes to show his children and also his teammates, new or tenured, about the importance of philanthropy.