P.J. Fleck said he wanted to give back somehow, but it wasn’t enough for the former NIU football player to just cut a check.

The wide receiver held his annual charity event June 30 at Fatty’s Pub & Grille, 1312 W. Lincoln Highway, to raise money for scholarships and juvenile arthritis.

“I wanted to do something where I could give back,” Fleck said. “And give the kids something to remember.”

Since being signed in 2004 by the San Fransisco 49ers, Fleck has held the event in conjunction with a one-day football camp and 7-on-7 passing league at his former high school, Kaneland.

Former 49ers teammate and current Cleveland Browns quarterback Ken Dorsey, amongst other high school coaches, players and athletic trainers, have helped Fleck promote and run the camps since its inception.

“We broke the kids up into offensive positions at the camp,” Fleck said. “It gave them a chance to learn, but most importantly, have fun.”

Jeff Dobie of Fatty’s aided Fleck in setting up the charity event that included a silent auction with items ranging from autographed footballs by Mike Ditka and Jerry Rice to game-worn autographed jerseys by Fleck and NIU running back Garrett Wolfe.

“Jeff has been unbelievable for this,” Fleck said. “I was a bartender here when I was in school. He’s a wonderful person with a big heart. He’s a pure guy that cares about the students at NIU.”

Unfortunately for Fleck, former NIU and current New York Jets wide receiver Justin McCareins could not make it to the event.

Also, former Northwestern quarterback Brett Basanez could not attend the event due to the recent death of Northwestern football coach Randy Walker.

“His death was definitely horrific,” Fleck said. “For the few times I met him, he was a great guy. His success spoke for itself. It makes you step back and look at your life, and realize it could happen to anybody.”

Between the camp fee of $40 and the money raised at the charity event, Fleck said all proceeds would go toward the two $2,500 scholarships donated to Kaneland and juvenile arthritis.

As for life after being released by the 49ers this year, Fleck said he might have a chance to work out with the Chicago Bears. Otherwise, Fleck said he might be headed back to the west coast, where the 49ers have offered him a coaching spot.

“Though I’d like to stay in the Chicago area,” Fleck said. “I want to be a college or professional coach. But to be a coach you have to be able to move around.”