Community Corner: A wish comes true

Wishes do come true:The Steelers made a wish come true for a special young fan on Friday when Sophia Moore was a guest of the team through the Make-A-Wish Foundation at practice.

Moore, along with her dad, watched practice at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.

After practice, Moore headed out to the field where the players posed for pictures and signed autographs, as well as creating a team tunnel for him to run through.

"It was so much fun watching practice," said Moore afterwards. "I love the Steelers. I have always loved them. Football is my thing."

Moore, who has congenital heart disease, will also be the guest of the Steelers for Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium.

Honoring heroes:Linebacker Patrick Queen welcomed a group from TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors) to Acrisure Stadium today for a military banner hanging as part of the upcoming Steelers Salute to Service game this week

Queen presented the families with banners that honor their fallen heroes and will hang along Art Rooney Avenue for Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns.

Queen, who has family members who have served in the military, has committed to giving back to those who have served and continue to serve in the Armed Forces.

Lending a helping hand:Long snapper Christian Kuntz was on hand for the ribbon cutting for the Resource Room and Food Pantry at Pittsburgh Morrow PreK-8 in Pittsburgh's Brighton Heights neighborhood.

Kuntz donated $10,000 through his Kuntz 4 Ki6s foundation to the Resource Room and Food Pantry, which is a dedicated support space for students and families.

"I'm honored to support Pittsburgh Morrow and be part of this special ribbon-cutting ceremony. Investing in our community and creating opportunities for the next generation is very important," said Kuntz. "I hope this contribution helps make a lasting impact and reminds students that their community is behind them every step of the way. Pittsburgh has always been home, and I'm proud to give back to a city that means so much to me."

The area provides basic needs to help students stay engaged and assist with school attendance. Students are provided with essential items, including shoes, coats, clothing items and hygiene products. The room will also double as a food pantry to allow school staff to offer food to families throughout the year. Created in partnership with local education advocates like A+ Schools, it serves as an essential support system for the school's students and families.

"The Pittsburgh Morrow Resource Room reflects the power of community partnerships to remove barriers and create an environment where students and families feel supported," said Pittsburgh Public Schools Superintendent Wayne N. Walters, EdD. "We are grateful to Christian Kuntz and Kuntz 4 Ki6s Foundation for their generosity and commitment to our school community. This investment is about more than providing essential resources. It is about helping students focus on learning and reaching their full potential while ensuring families know they are valued and surrounded by a community invested in their success."

Fun, and lots of games:As a part of the Steelers Salute to Service initiative, the team hosted a Gridiron Game Night at Rezzanine Esports, a place dedicated to console and PC games, as well as classic games like pinball.

Linebackers Patrick Queen and Marte Mapu and running back Eli Heidenreich hosted the night of video games and pizza in conjunction with the USO, treating youth who have a parent deployed or have served to a special experience.

The Steelers will host their annual Salute to Service game on Sunday, Nov. 1 when they host the Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium.

Honoring those who have served our country is something the Steelers have done for decades. Since the inception of the NFL's Salute to Service initiative, the Steelers have honored countless veterans at the annual game and celebrated those who continue to serve in all branches of the armed forces.

Tricks and treats:Long snapper Christian Kuntz continued his mission of giving back to kids in the Pittsburgh area when he hosted the Kuntz 4Ki6s Halloween Bash.

Kuntz treated kids at the Best of the Batch Foundation to a fun-filled afternoon where they were able to pick out Halloween costumes they could use for trick or treating later this week, as well as enjoy treats and take part in fun activities.

Kuntz hosted the event in conjunction with his Kutnz 4Ki6s Foundation, which is dedicated to promoting youth leadership and engagement, fostering mentoring relationships, and supporting the underserved communities in the Pittsburgh region.

Cooking for a cause:As a part of breast cancer awareness month, and in conjunction with the NFL's Crucial Catch initiative, Steelers alumni took part in the annual Healthy Cooking Demo with UPMC.

The players spent time at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, making it a fun and meaningful afternoon for breast cancer patients and survivors.

The players prepared healthy food options, giving a variety of tasty, yet healthy treats.

The group was also joined by Steelers executive chef Kevin Blinn, who helped the players with cooking tricks and tips.

Wrapping up Kindness Week:Defensive tackle Cameron Heyward put a bow on his annual 'Cam's Kindness Week' when he hosted student ambassadors who take part in his Suiting Up for Success program at practice at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.

The students watched practice and met Heyward and some of his teammates afterwards.

Suiting Up for Success is done in conjunction with The Heyward House and 'Craig's Closet.'

Each year Heyward holds his Suiting Up for Success event, celebrating male high school seniors in the Pittsburgh area, all chosen by their schools for their leadership, character and ability to overcome challenges faced by today's youth.

The Heyward House provides each of them with a custom suit and all the accessories through his 'Craig's Closet' program, as well as a photo shoot and a private dinner with Heyward.

'Craig's Closet' has been a staple for The Heyward House since 2018, launched in honor of his late father, Craig 'Ironhead' Heyward, who died from a brain tumor in 2006, at just 39 years old.

His father played football at the University of Pittsburgh, and when he arrived as a freshman running back, he had only one suit, something he was grateful to have since he came from a single-parent home with six siblings.

With so many young men in Pittsburgh facing the same challenge of not having a suit that they could wear to a job interview, internship, events and more, Heyward produced a plan. 'Craig's Closet' provides free dress clothes to help young men as they move forward in life, and the Suiting Up for Success program is an extension of that.

"The idea came from my dad," said Heyward. "When he grew up, he only had one suit. A lot of his friends didn't have suits at all. This is a creative way we thought of to give back to the community and help prepare young men for jobs, or homecoming, moving forward in life. You never know how much a suit can help you present yourself."

Staff from the Heyward House also distributed gift cards to community members on Friday, trying to make their day brighter.

A love for giving back:Tight end Pat Freiermuth continued his commitment to help area youth with educational supplies when he hosted a backpack giveaway at Carnegie Library for the Homeless Children's Education Fund.

The students received backpacks, which were filled with supplies, and enjoyed ice cream and other surprises with Freiermuth.

The distribution was done in conjunction with the Freiermuth Fund, which he started in 2025 to 'connect with students and teachers at every level who have big goals but may lack the resources to achieve themfrom classroom supplies and technology to financial support.

"The Freiermuth Fund means a lot to me and my family," said Freiermuth. "Being able to give back to kids to help them be successful in school is our goal."

Freiermuth is also in the second year of the Fund's Teacher Nomination Program, which recognizes outstanding educators who embody compassion, resilience, and leadership in the classroom. The Freiermuth Fund will accept nominations of teachers located in the Greater Pittsburgh Area. Each month, the Fund will select a teacher to receive $1,000 towards classroom supplies, a Steelers Game Day experience, and exclusive Steelers merchandise. The selected teachers will also be entered into a drawing to win a classroom visit from Freiermuth at the end of the football season.

For more information, contact the Freiermuth Fund [email protected] visit the website atwww.freiermuthfund.com. Fill out a nomination form atwww.freiermuthfund.com/nominationsor [email protected] nominate a teacher.

Keeping the legacy alive:Defensive tackle Cameron Heyward opened his newest 'Craig's Closet' at Perry Traditional Academy in Pittsburgh as part of 'Cam's Kindness Week.'

'Craig's Closet' has been a staple for The Heyward House since 2018, launched in honor of his late father, Craig 'Ironhead' Heyward, who died from a brain tumor in 2006, at just 39 years old.

His father played football at the University of Pittsburgh, and when he arrived as a freshman running back, he had only one suit, something he was grateful to have since he came from a single-parent home with six siblings.

With so many young men in Pittsburgh facing the same challenge of not having a suit that they could wear to a job interview, internship, events and more, Heyward produced a plan. 'Craig's Closet' provides free dress clothes to help young men as they move forward in life, and the Suiting Up for Success program is an extension of that.

"The idea came from my dad," said Heyward. "When he grew up, he only had one suit. A lot of his friends didn't have suits at all. This is a creative way we thought of to give back to the community and help prepare young men for jobs, or homecoming, moving forward in life. You never know how much a suit can help you present yourself."

Sharing his story:Defensive tackle Cameron Heyward knows the pain of losing someone you love. He understands how hard it is to deal with the grief you feel. He experienced it firsthand when he lost his father, Craig 'Ironhead' Heyward, when he was just a teenager, and the pain was real.

Finding someone to talk with to deal with the pain and grief is important. And in Pittsburgh, The Caring Place offers support for kids.

Heyward got involved with The Caring Place in 2023, wanting to help kids who have dealt with the same pain he has. As part of 'Cam's Caring Week,' Heyward visited The Caring Place tonight to talk with the kids.

The Caring Place offers programs to support children and families who are grieving after a devastating loss. And the statistics are sad, as one in 12 kids will have a parent die before they graduate from high school.

Heyward visited there on Wednesday night, first taking a tour and then sharing his story about losing his father with those who have experienced similar loss.

"I lost my dad at 17," said Heyward. "For children going through it, you've got to have the right support system in place to battle that. I learned that over time. I don't know if I had all the right tools then, but I am trying to give them words of wisdom and let them know I have their back."

The Caring Place began in 1996 in Pittsburgh and since then it's expanded to three additional locations. Thousands receive help each year at no cost through peer support programs, education, consultation, and referral services.

"After losing my dad, I didn't have someone in my life outside of my family that I could really turn to," said Heyward. "I try to provide that, share my story, how I've grown, who I relied on, and just try and find common ground.

"It's not an easy thing to deal with, but everybody goes through losing a loved one."

Plenty of smiles:Steelers rookies had a fun time on Tuesday visiting patients at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh.

The group took part in the 'Renegade Rookie Visit,' spreading joy to young patients who were nothing but smiles.

The rookies spent time playing games with the kids, doing craft projects and posing for pictures in the hospital's Fred Rogers Atrium.

The visit is one of the endeavors for the team's rookie class, who are committed to giving back to the community throughout the season.

On the job:Steelers players took part in the Pittsburgh Next: Youth Career Resource and Opportunity Fair today at Acrisure Stadium, including Cameron Heyward as a part of 'Cam's Kindness Week.'

It was an opportunity to empower young adults in the region with valuable ready-to-work resources, networking and career opportunities in various fields. It included mock interviews, networking opportunities and job resource tables.

The event was hosted in collaboration with the Steelers, The Heyward House, Partner4Work, Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania, Caf Momentum Pittsburgh, YouthPlaces, the City of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County Government.

Kicking off 'Kindness Week':Defensive tackle Cameron Heyward kicked off 'Cam's Kindness Week' by providing lunch for area kids.

With Monday being a holiday, Heyward provided lunch for kids at 10 different City of Pittsburgh Parks and Recreation Centers.

The lunches helped to supplement school lunches the kids otherwise would have received.

Heyward, the 2023 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, has a strong passion for giving back to those in the community who need a little something extra, inspiring him to spread kindness throughout the region on a designated week each season.

"It's a week where we try to give back as much as possible and I really do enjoy it," said Heyward. "I look forward to it, and the goal is always to make sure our community thrives."

Heyward is hoping the idea for giving back in a big manner is something others consider doing in the future.

"It doesn't have to be Cam's kindness, but it could be any player's kindness," said Heyward. "It's about making our community the focus.

"What can we do to give back is always what we're worried about."

Wishes do come true:The Steelers made a wish come true for a special young fan on Friday when Karsen Kettler was a guest of the team through the Make-A-Wish Foundation at practice.

Kettler, along with his parents and older brother, watched practice at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.

"I'm a big fan of the Steelers," said the 11-year, who lives in Washington, Pa. "I think they area really good football team. "This is pretty great. It's really cool to see this today. I told my friends I got to go to the practice facility and it's not open to the public, so I would be the only kind watching.

After practice, Kettler headed out to the field where the players posed for pictures and signed autographs, as well as creating a team tunnel for him to run through.

Kettler, who has Cystic Fibrosis, will also be the guest of the Steelers for Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium.

School days:Tight end Pat Freiermuth hosted a school resource distribution today at Clairton Elementary School.

The distribution was done in conjunction with the Freiermuth Fund, which he started in 2025 to 'connect with students and teachers at every level who have big goals but may lack the resources to achieve themfrom classroom supplies and technology to financial support,' and The Education Partnership, who provide school supplies to students and teachers in under-resourced schools across Southwestern Pennsylvania.

"The Freiermuth Fund means a lot to me and my family," said Freiermuth. "Being able to go to the Clairton area and give back to kids to help them be successful in school is our goal.

"It makes it all worth it just seeing the kids smile when they get new school supplies. It's just great to be able to bring some great happiness to their day."

The Fund's goal is to provide students and educators with the tools necessary to succeed in the classroom and beyond. The plan is to provide classroom essentials and materials, including books and supplies.

"Growing up in the family I did, especially with my parents as educators, they played a major role in the importance of school," said Freiermuth. "Being successful in football in high school and college, they never allowed me to forget how important school is.

"If I can do my part to allow teachers to express that to the kids, how important school is, and help them succeed to be successful, then I'm doing something bigger than my impact on the field."

Freiermuth also launched the second year of the Teacher Nomination Program, which will recognize outstanding educators who embody compassion, resilience, and leadership in the classroom. The Freiermuth Fund will accept nominations of teachers located in the Greater Pittsburgh Area. Each month, the Fund will select a teacher to receive $1,000 towards classroom supplies, a Steelers Game Day experience, and exclusive Steelers merchandise. The selected teachers will also be entered into a drawing to win a classroom visit from Freiermuth at the end of the football season.

For more information, contact the Freiermuth Fund at [email protected] or visit the website at www.freiermuthfund.com. Fill out a nomination form at www.freiermuthfund.com/nominations or email [email protected] to nominate a teacher.

Reading together:The Steelers partnered with Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) Pittsburgh for 'Literacy Under the Lights,' with linebacker Alex Highsmith as one of the story time readers for the 'Won't You Be a Reader' program.

The event was launched this year to bring kids and families together under the lights for a fun-filled evening of reading, with local athletes, authors, educators and leaders serving as guest readers.

Held at UPMC Graham Field at Chatham University, the evening also included free books for kids, literacy resources for the kids and parents, and of course plenty of games and activities, with area mascots also taking part.

Reading Is Fundamental Pittsburgh addresses a critical need for families who do not own books for their children by providing them with access to self-selected books, creating positive environments that motivate children to develop a lifelong love of reading, and engage families in literacy practices in the home. By providing more than 84,000 books and services to Pittsburgh's most economically disadvantaged children, RIF Pittsburgh is dedicated to reducing the literacy gap in the community and fostering a lifelong love of reading in the children they serve.

Staying warm:Fall is in full effect in Pittsburgh, with beautiful days and cool nights.

Soon, though, the weather is going to take a drastic change, with winter's chill taking a grip on the Pittsburgh region.

The snowy weather might look pretty, but for those who don't have proper winter outwear they are oftentimes left in the cold.

That is why the Steelers once again partnered with Project Bundle-Up to take kids from the Steel Valley Salvation Army Corps shopping for warm outwear.

Players teamed up with area youth to select a new winter coat, hat, gloves and boots to ensure they are prepared for the cold months ahead.

"Being able to take some kids shopping that need the new winter coats, have them pick out, what they like and what they want is special," said tight end Pat Freiermuth, who works closely with Project Bundle-Up. "It's great to be there with the team and the whole Project Bundle-Up crew experience that all together."

The Salvation Army's Project Bundle-Up is a program started by two late Pittsburgh staples, Patricia Rooney, the wife of late Steelers Chairman Dan Rooney, and Joe DeNardo, the former WTAE-TV weatherman. This is the 40th year for the program and there is one thing that has been consistent all along, the day is special for the kids and the players alike.

"Getting a new coat for the winner in Pittsburgh is so important," said Freiermuth. "It's a tough winter in Pittsburgh, so being able to get the new winter supplies goes a long way."

Also on hand were cornerback Jamel Dean, quarterback Will Howard, receiver Max Hurlman, receiver Brandon Johnson, defensive tackle Esezi Otomewo and cornerback Asante Samuel Jr..

Through Project Bundle-Up, children up to 18 years old and seniors 62 and over are eligible for assistance to purchase warm winter outwear. Since the program began, more than $18 million has been raised and provided outerwear for nearly 315,000 individuals, with nearly 5,000 individuals assisted annually.

Game time with kids:Steelers General Manager Omar Khan took part in a fun event at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, bridging language barriers for Bilingual Bingo with football fun.

The bingo game is used by pediatric hospitals across the country to entertain patients, bridge language barriers, and build community.

UPMC Children's Hospital hosts a weekly bilingual bingo with English and Spanish language, through their international department.

Khan, who is fluent in English and Spanish, helped call the bingo game from the Dream Big Studio, a TV and radio broadcast studio in the hospital, which allows patients to play along in their rooms on closed-circuit television, allowing everyone to take part since some children can't be in common spaces.

"The thing for me, and my family, is doing everything we can to help put a smile on the face of a kid that's suffering or in pain, a kid who is going through a lot of things that many of us outside of the hospital can't relate to," said Khan. "I've taken my family there on occasion and hopefully our kids are able to appreciate what we have health-wise versus what other kids and families are going through.

"In addition to all the great work they do, Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh does an amazing job taking in some international kids that are going through a great deal in their lives. Me being bilingual, this is an opportunity to do my part putting a smile on their face and helping them interact with other kids or just do something to remove them maybe from what they're going through at least for a little bit.

"I was excited to participate in this, and hopefully I put a smile on some of the kid's faces today."

As we all know, bingo can be a competitive game.

Khan's main focus, though, was making it fun.

"It's a fun game we play with our kids," said Khan. "They enjoy playing bingo and I'm sure almost all kids do. The best part is when you can jump up and say bingo and win some type of prize."

The Steelers have been participating in the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, and the Bilingual Bingo game was an ideal way to top it off.

"The Hispanic community is very important, not only to Pittsburgh, but to the entire country," said Khan. "Me being part Hispanic, it's extra special for me to participate in."

Sweet treat:Linebacker Alex Highsmith took part in Millie's Ice Cream's 'Celebrity Scoop' fundraiser.

Highsmith scooped the tasty treat at the store's South Highland Avenue location to benefit the 45th Annual KDKA Turkey Fund which benefits the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.

Stay in the know:Linebacker Alex Highsmith took part in Game Plan for Breast Health as a part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month on Sunday at Woodlawn Park Plaza at Hazelwood Green.

One of the main reasons for the event, which was free to the public, was an opportunity for attendees to learn how to access free and low-cost breast cancer screenings.

In addition, there were education tables to learn the facts vs. myths for breast cancer prevention and treatment, while connecting with local organizations and providers.

The highlight was an opportunity to recognize breast cancer warriors with a special tribute.

The Steelers worked in collaboration with multiple partners on the event, including the Alex Highsmith Family Foundation, American Cancer Society and the NFL's Crucial Catch/Intercept Cancer program.

Highsmith is the Steelers ambassador for the American Cancer Society and Crucial Catch program. At the end of the 2026 season, one team ambassador will be selected as our Ambassador of the Year Award, an honor inspired by the spirit of the Walter Payton Man of the Year award celebrating the support and dedication of our ambassadors.

Wishes do come true:The Steelers made a wish come true for a special three-year old on Friday when Brooks Pilon was the guest of the team and Make-A-Wish at practice.

Pilon, along with his parents and sister, watched practice at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.

After practice, Pilon headed out to the field where the players showed him love, posed for pictures and signed autographs for the excited toddler.

Pilon, who was diagnosed with leukemia, will also be the guest of the Steelers for Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium.

Having a 'Bash':Defensive end Sebastian Joseph-Day hosted a community day at the Boys & Girls Club on Tuesday, taking part in activities with the students and treating them to a pizza party

"I am excited to be able to spend time with the kids at the Boys & Girls Club and be part of a day that's all about community, encouragement, and having fun," said Joseph-Day. "I just want to be able to give back and inspire, but also to learn from them. I just want to be a resource however I can."

This is the latest community venture for Joseph-Day, who hosted a back-to-school backpack giveaway at Ross-Stulgaitis Stadium in his hometown of Stroudsburg, Pa. this year.

Sebastian-Day also has a Bashing Hunger program that is focused on fighting food insecurity.

A special visit:The Steelers rookies spent Tuesday visiting the Best of the Batch Foundation, touring the facility and learning more about the programs Charlie and Latasha Batch provide for area youth.

It was also an opportunity to talk with Batch about community involvement, as he has dedicated so much of his life to giving back.

"For a number of years now the rookies have come over and visited the facility," said Batch. "It gives them an opportunity to show what they are passionate about. They can see how you can make an impact in the community. This takes it to the next step. They learn about why certain players do things in the community, why they are passionate about various causes."

The rookies also took time to take part in activities with the kids, something that will help create lifetime memories.

"Seeing them interact with the kids is truly special," said Batch. "The kids are all huge Steelers fans. Growing up a part of Steelers Nation, they get really excited about it. They don't really know me as a player. It's justthat's Charlie. But they get excited when they know the Steelers are coming. The kids are able to build relationships with the players and feel like they know them because they took time out of their day to spend a few moments with them. That's a memory that they'll never forget. And they continue to talk about it."

Something special:Christian Kuntz spent time of Thursday bringing smiles and words of encouragement to some incredibly special area athletes.

Kuntz spoke to athletes on the USA National Special Olympics Team who will be participating in the 2027 Special Olympics World Winter Games.

"I just wanted to create some energy for them and some excitement," said Kuntz. "The fact that they're competing at the highest level is an achievement and accomplishment, and I wanted to recognize them for that."

Kuntz also took part in some activities with the athletes, making it a special evening for all involved.

"I just wanted them to have fun and enjoy themselves," said Kuntz. "They're competing at such a high level. They're superstar athletes and I'm excited to fire them up."

Teeing off for a cause:Tight end Pat Freiermuth hosted the Annual Tee Up Fore Bundle-Up Mini Golf Classic on Tuesday at Puttshack Pittsburgh.

"It's fun," said Freiermuth, who was joined at the event by quarterback Mason Rudolph. "It's cool to meet the sponsors who are playing golf and having fun. And to give back to the Salvation Army is special. They do a lot of great work in the Pittsburgh area and all around the world. It's good to be an ambassador for that, especially with Project Bundle-Up part of it."

The event benefits Project Bundle-Up, a Salvation Army program that provides winter outerwear for needy children and seniors in Southwestern Pennsylvania and was founded by the late Patricia Rooney, wife of Steelers chairman Dan Rooney, and the late Joe DeNardo, retired WTAE-TV weatherman.

"The work the Rooneys do in the Pittsburgh area and supporting the communities around it is amazing," said Freiermuth. "Anytime players can give back and help, it's awesome.

"I've been a part of the shopping event every single year I've been here and it's cool to see the kids and help them shop."

A wish and a smile:Friday was a special day for Levi Joyner, a young Steelers fan who spent the day smiling from ear to ear.

Joyner was the guest of the Steelers and the Make-A-Wish Foundation at practice at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex on Friday.

Joyner, a 12-year-old from Florida, was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Seeing the Steelers has been a dream for him.

"I've liked the Steelers for a while," said Joyner. "I just figured it would be cool to come here and see them. I really like the team. I love watching football.

"I am just super excited to be here."

Joyner spent time talking with the players, getting pictures and autographs, and simply enjoying being around his favorite team. He also broke the team down at the end of practice and then the players made a tunnel for him to run through where low-fives were plentiful.

He will also attend the Steelers-Falcons game on Sunday at Acrisure Stadium along with his family.

"I'm really excited for the game," said Joyner. "I've never been to a game. I can't wait,"

And with that, the smile got even bigger.

Honoring and remembering:The Steelers joined other NFL teams, corporations, community groups and individuals across the country on Friday and honored and remembered the 25th Anniversary of the attacks of September 11, working with the non-profit 9/11 Day for the single largest day of giving back in American history.

9/11 Day was instrumental in establishing September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance and is done in honor of the families and others affected by the attacks.

Volunteers gathered at Acrisure Stadium to take part, starting with a moment of silence to honor the victims of the attacks.

Approximately 500 volunteers were on hand to pack meals, which will be sent to veteran's organizations in the Pittsburgh area as part of the 9/11 Day's hunger relief program.

Founded in 2002, the nonprofit 9/11 Day led the successful effort to establish September 11 as a federally recognized National Day of Service and Remembrance. Each year, tens of millions of Americans observe the day by performing good deeds in honor of those who perished, were injured or sickened; the survivors; the first responders; and all who rose to serve in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Learn more at911day.org.

Stay in the Game:As part of the Steelers commitment to Stay in the Game, Steelers Partick Queen, Riley Nowakowski, and Brandon Johnson spent time at Westinghouse Academy on Tuesday to meet with students and share the importance of school attendance.

The group answered questions, talking about their NFL journey, preparing for the season and how staying on track and on schedule has helped them.

The Stay in the Game! Attendance Network began in 2019 and works together to campaign, connect and convene with experts and supporters to dramatically improve attendance as it has been shown that consistent school attendance is a key to success for students.

Racing for a reason:The annual Steelers Run and Walk was held on the North Shore on Monday morning, with an exciting finish line inside of Acrisure Stadium.

Steelers 2026 Hall of Honor member J.T. Thomas got the race started as the honorary co-chair, and was joined at the finish line by former defensive lineman Chris Hoke to greet the participants.

The Steelers Run and Walk benefits the Art Rooney Scholarship Fund, which was established in memory of the late founder of the Steelers, Art Rooney, Sr., who died in August of 1988 after living most of his life on the North Side.

The scholarship annually provides a grant to a North Catholic High School student and funds the Pittsburgh Promise scholarships for two students graduating from Pittsburgh high schools who are residents of the North Side.

Since its inception, the scholarship has awarded grants to more than 90 local students.

This year's scholarship winners are JoLeene Condle, Tru Dobbins and Chris Koyo.

Condle attended North Catholic High School and will attend Duquesne University, while Dobbin and Koyo, who both attended Perry Traditional Academy, will attend the University of Pittsburgh and Robert Morris University respectively.

"It is just very special," said Pat Gerrero, the granddaughter of Art Rooney Sr. "It's just so rewarding to be able to continue promoting and helping young people gain a broader education and maybe get an opportunity that they may not have been able to get without the scholarship. It's wonderful. I love being able to continue this work that we started a while ago."

Seeing the scholarship continuing to grow is something Gerrero takes great pride in, knowing the countless students who it has benefited throughout the years.

"It's amazing," said Gerrero. "When we first started it, of course we were happy about it and excited, but I figured it would be five years or something. But it has grown so much, a lot of that thanks to our 5K. Each year the race gets bigger and we're able to continue this work so many years later."

Back to school bash:Linebacker Alex Highsmith hosted his Annual Back to School Bash for area students at the Best of the Batch Foundation.

Highsmith distributed backpacks, books and school supplies to the students through the Alex Highsmith Family Foundation.

"This means everything," said Highsmith. "I know that I have this platform. The reason I've been given this platform is so much more than football. For me, what's most important is giving back to the communities that I'm in, the communities I love.

"This community here in Pittsburgh means a lot to me. And so just being able to give back and use the platform that I have for good, it just means the world. Just knowing that God has given me this platform, not to advance myself, but to be a blessing to others. I think that's what it's about."

Highsmith also provided haircuts for the youth, and well as grab-and-go meals.

Highsmith said the highlight is seeing the smiles on the kids' faces as they get their new backpack and spend time together.

"That's the best part about it," said Highsmith. "It's great to see their happiness."

Making back to school special:Steelers players continue to host back-to-school events, and long snapper Christian Kuntz did his part on Monday evening.

Kuntz, through his Kuntz4Ki6s Foundation, partnered with the Homeless Children's Education Fund to take kids shopping for clothes for back to school, making sure they are ready with all of the essentials.

"Being from Pittsburgh and being able to give back to kids that are less fortunate than I am, this is special to me and my family," said Kuntz, who was joined by linebacker Payton Wilson for the shopping trip.

The Homeless Children's Education Fund's mission is to provide children and youth experiencing homelessness with a more equitable educational experience by partnering with students, families, and schools to eliminate the barriers caused by unstable housing. Through personalized, accessible learning, advocacy for systemic change, and the cultivation of strategic partnerships, they are committed to creating a region where youth experiencing homelessness can leverage their education to flourish as productive, empowered adults.

Kuntz, who has reached out to various youth organizations since starting his foundation, understands what back to school is like and wanted the kids to have a fresh start.

"The first week is always the best," said Kuntz. "The kids love to come in new stuff. It was a special time, first week back to school, getting all the new stuff and wearing it and showing off your new gear."

A cut above:Safety Jaquan Brisker has embraced being back in his hometown of Pittsburgh and as part of that have jumped right into getting involved in the community.

Brisker hosted a back-to-school event for area kids, which included getting them a fresh new look with haircuts for the new school year.

Back to school time:With the new school year starting for students around the region, sending kids back to the classroom with all the necessities is definitely a priority.

That is why the Steelers joined forces with others to be a part of the 14th Annual Pittsburgh Public Schools Back to School Event (#PittsburghforPPS) at Acrisure Stadium.

Students received backpacks stuffed with the school necessities, while books and food were also available. In addition, haircuts, hairstyles and manicures were offered to provide confidence and care for the students.

Students were able to enter Acrisure Stadium to take advantage of all of the activities or participate in the drive-thru version where they were able to still get free school supplies and other essentials without having to leave their car.

The Steelers teamed with the Pittsburgh Pirates and Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation, among others, for the event.

Special guests:The Steelers hosted guests from the Casey Cares Foundation at practice as part of the team's community relations program.

Casey Cares is a non-profit that works with families nationally. The foundation provides ongoing and uplifting programming to over 1,600 critically ill children and their families (including siblings). Programming includes family-centric events such as tickets to sporting events, live shows, concerts and museums, group parties, birthday surprises, and more! Typically, a child will participate in about six programs each year.

The Steelers also hosted families through Survivor Outreach Services at the practice today at Saint Vincent College.

Welcome to camp:The Steelers hosted a group from Homewood Children's Village and Community Empowerment Associate at training camp on Saturday as part of the team's community relations program.

A fun day for area youth:The Steelers hosted a group from Caf Momentum at practice today as past of the team's community relations program.

Caf Momentum Pittsburgh opened in 2023 as a place where Pittsburghers can go and enjoy fine dining. But moreso, it offers a culinary internship to teens 15 to 19 who are justice-involved. Caf Momentum, which originated in Dallas, provides a transformative experience through a 12-month paid post-release internship program. Participants rotate through the restaurant, focusing on life and social skills, coaching and development.

The Steelers hosted Clairton Cares at camp on Thursday.

Clairton Cares is a collaborative initiative of local residents and service providers committed to organizing an effective network of community health activism to accomplish transformational change in their collective well-being. Their approach recognizes the societal issues of systemic racism and poverty as root causes of the city's most persistent threats.

Giving back:The Steelers hosted a group from UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh Family Care Connection Center at practice as part of the team's community relations program.

UPMC Children's Family Care Connection centers are part of the Allegheny County Family Support network. Located in the neighborhoods of Braddock, Rankin, Turtle Creek, Penn Hills, Lawrenceville and Mt. Oliver, Family Care Connection works in partnership with families to meet their goals and help children achieve brighter futures.

Special visitors:The Steelers hosted LaRosa Pittsburgh at practice as a part of the team's community relations program.

The organization invests their time, treasure, and talent to provide first class enrichment opportunities to the youth of McKeesport, setting them on a successful path to adulthood. They achieve this by honoring their core values while providing socialization, growth and learning opportunities in an out-of-school time setting, with an emphasis on leadership, citizenship, education, recreation, community service and healthy life skills.

A special wish:The Steelers had a special surprise following practice on Saturday for Jake Myers, who was a guest of the team through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Myers, who deals with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, watched practice from the field along with his family.

Myers had the opportunity to meet Steelers players, obtain autographs and have plenty of photos taken with all of his favorites.

The special moment, though, came when Myers was presented with Steelers season tickets for the 2026 season, making his wish come true.

Welcome to camp:The Steelers hosted the Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania at practice as a part of the team's community relations program.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania (BGCWPA) was established in 1888 to activate the potential of youth and this mission continues to be as important now as it ever was. Providing safe places, mentors, and programs has always been the core model, but how it is delivered has evolved over time as the need and conditions have changed. BGCWPA prides itself on the ability to respond and adapt to ensure we remain resilient, sustainable, and innovative as it is our responsibility that we are always prepared to deliver our commitment to the children and families throughout Greater Pittsburgh.

A special day:The Steelers hosted a group from the Urban Impact Foundation at practice as part of the team's community relations program.

Urban Impact and the Steelers have a long history of improving the lives of kids on Pittsburgh's North Side. Their mission is to invest in the lives of at-risk children, youth, and their families in order to develop responsible followers of Christ.

Hosting special guests:The Steelers hosted the Allegheny County Transition Age Youth Team at practice on Thursday for training camp.

Transitional Services Inc. administers the Permanent Supportive Housing for Transition Age Youth (TAY) program through Allegheny County's Housing as Home strategic plan. The purpose of the program is to make 24 units available annually for Office of Behavioral Health (OBH) priority transition-age youth, with psychiatric disabilities. The program helps identified youth to secure housing and maintain tenancy. The TAY program also provides support and education to individuals, providers and landlords regarding housing. Individuals are connected to financial, advocacy and legal resources. Individuals are not required to participate in psychiatric services to keep their housing.

Welcome to camp:The Steelers began their tradition of welcoming community groups to training camp when they hosted Center that CARES on Wednesday at Saint Vincent College.

The Center that CARES is a dynamic, community-focused organization dedicated to addressing the root causes of inequities within the community through responsive and generational support. Serving as an epicenter of social impact, it offers comprehensive services across key areas such as housing, workforce development, violence prevention, and educational opportunities. Their mission is to create a network of innovative and responsive opportunities that empower individuals and families, fostering thriving life outcomes in a nurturing environment.

The Steelers also hosted Hand and Hand Coaching on Wednesday as part of the community program.

Hand and Hand Coaching is a program dedicated to supporting youth and young adults in overcoming obstacles and realizing their full potential.

Continuing the tradition:Steelers rookies continued a tradition that began in 2004 when they visited the Mel Blount Youth Home in Claysville, Pa. on Friday, working with the Hall of Fame cornerback to engage with youth from the surrounding area as a part of Blount's Youth Leadership Initiative.

"This is big for our community," said Blount. "We've got a lot of kids from the community, football teams, youth organizations and groups. It's so great to see the kids interact with these rookies and how they come in and embrace the kids. It's a beautiful thing.

"It's important because they have a lot of influence on young people. Kids watch them on television. They read about them. They are always talking about them on SportsCenter. For these kids to meet these players and see them start their careers. On the other hand, I think it 's good for the athletes. They get a chance to interact with the kids, influence them and give them good sound advice. We are so grateful the Steelers take time out to be a part of this."

The idea behind the visit is to help inspire the kids who are taking part and teach the importance of teamwork as the kids go through a series of physical challenges and football drills designed for them to work together in teams.

It's part of the Steelers legacy of former players and current players working together to make a difference in the community.

"We're out here having fun with the kids," said first round pick Max Iheanachor. "We have different stations, different positions. We have them running around, throwing the football, just having fun with the kids.

"This is important to show them anything is possibly. Just dropping knowledge on them, advice, encouragement. People did it for us. It's a way to pay it back. Just making sure they know anything is possible if they work hard.

"Mel Blount is a legend here. What he has done in the past speaks for itself. Now giving back to the community and helping the kids out. He cares about this city a lot. Being able to bring us out to help the kids shows how much he cares and what he means to the city too."

Kicking things off:Steelers Logan Lee and Mason McCormick helped to kick off the Boys & Girls Club of Western Pennsylvania's All Sports Camp.

The players put the kids through drills, encouraging them to stay active while stressing the importance of teamwork.

The program is one of the main ones the Boys & Girls Club runs through the summer to keep kids active.

Working together for good causes:The Steelers held their annual Community Partner Appreciation Breakfast on Friday at Acrisure Stadium, an opportunity to recognize the amazing work being done by agencies in the Pittsburgh region to make a difference in the communities they serve.

The Steelers worked with all of the partners throughout the past year, hosting 96 events in 33 different neighborhoods. As a part of it, over 1,300 meals were distributed, and 500 youth were served during the holiday season. In addition, the Steelers Social Justice Fund provided over $595,000 in donations to 12 community organizations focused on addressing food insecurity.

"This is always my favorite event of the year," said Blayre Holmes-Davis, the Steelers senior director of community relations. "We do so much work together during the season and I think it's important for us to just take a moment and really recognize the important work that we do in the community, not individually, but collectively."

Steelers President Art Rooney II, linebacker Alex Highsmith and former quarterback Charlie Batch were part of the panel discussion to talk about the importance of giving back.

"We've been fortunate down through the years to have so many players that really 'got it' in terms of wanting to be part of the community and wanting to give back to the community," said Rooney. "We've been very fortunate down through the years to have so many guys, and their wives, be part of the community."

Highsmith, the Steelers Club Winner for the 2025 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, knows that football isn't his only role with the Steelers.

"This is what it's all about. It's about giving back to the community," said Highsmith, who started the Alex Highsmith Family Foundation with his wife, Alyssa. "That's what I want to be remembered for most. The Rooney family cultivates a spirit to give back and a culture to give back. And having guys like Charlie Batch around, and Cam Heyward in the locker room with me, guys I can talk to about my foundation and lean on for wisdom and insight, has been cool."

Batch, who runs the Best of the Batch Foundation with his wife Latasha, understands the importance of passing the torch to the younger players and seeing them get involved.

"It starts with the Rooney family," said Batch. "And it's not cliche because you see them day in and day out. The biggest thing (when I came here from Detroit) was I could walk down to the corner office and the Rooney family had their door open. They said, if there's anything that we can do, please stop in and have a genuine conversation. When you see that, and you see the players and what they're doing in the community, it's special.

"For me it started whenever I had the opportunity to be around Jerome Bettis in the locker room and I wanted to emulate that. Now I have the opportunity to cross paths with Alex and see the passion he and his wife have, and now it's what we can help him do."

Making Mother's Day special:Long snapper Christian Kuntz and his wife Heather provided a Mother's Day treat at Children's Hospital on Friday.

The couple provided lunch for moms who have infants in the NICU unit at the hospital.