I may be biased, but I think we have some of the best sport teams in the country. We have two great football teams, countless collegiate teams and the team of Cal Ripken. But what makes me most proud about our professional teams isn’t their athletic ability, or their stellar 10-3 record after a certain running back rushed 103 yards for a touchdown after catching six passes for 46 yards. No, what makes me most proud is that so many of our athletes use their fame and popularity to help other Marylanders in need.

Last night, I had the privilege to join two of Maryland’s best role models, Ray Rice and Brian Roberts, at Port Discovery for the University of Maryland Children’s Hospital’s annual holiday party.

We were there to celebrate the joy of the holiday season and spend time with the children. It is always extremely humbling to be with kids who are sick. I am always amazed by their strength, bravery and how hard they work to get healthy. I was also moved by the families that were there for the support they provide to their loved ones every day. We are all in this together and we will continue to do everything we can to ease the burden upon these children and their families.

I wanted to extend a very special thanks to Ray Rice and Brian Roberts for the tremendous work  they’ve done to help kids in need. It’s an honor to count them as partners in the Maryland: Stronger Together campaign. I hope you will follow Ray and Brian’s lead and reach out to your neighbors in need and lend a helping hand this holiday season. For more information on the campaign and for volunteer opportunities, visit this page and be sure to like the facebook page.

Thanks again to Ray and Brian for coming together to build a stronger Maryland.

Martin O'Malley is the Governor of Maryland. He writes a regular blog for his official website.