Originally from the Dallas area, former Houston Texans offensive lineman Wade Smith decided to make Houston his permanent home during his four seasons (2010-2013) as the team's starting left guard. The big winner in Smith's decision to settle in Houston after his 12-season run in the National Football League ended: the hundreds of kids whom Smith has helped become more proficient in reading. Through his Wade Smith Foundation, Smith continues to convey his lifelong passion for reading by launching initiatives targeting child literacy, most notably the release of two children's books addressing literacy and bullying, and events like July's "Smitty's Day at the Park," where Smith and several of his former NFL teammates conducted a free football camp at Levy Park for kids grades K-6. The only condition kids needed to fulfill for attending the camp? They had to read one book and answer questions about it on their registration form. The participation of former teammates and NFL alums in Smith-related events, everything from the day at Levy Park to a July roast of Smith, which also raised money for his foundation, is a sure sign of peer respect for not only an NFL career well played, but Smith's service to others during and after his playing days.