Community Corner: Wishes do come true

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.

"It's Mother's Day, and they are in the NICU going through a hard time," said Kuntz. "We wanted to bring some joy to them, provide them with something to lighten their spirits and let them know that, you know, we support them."

After lunch, they gave flowers to the moms, who were moved by the gestures.

"We have a child of our own, so we know what families go through, especially in the hospital," said Kuntz. "It means a lot to us to be able to do this. We're very fortunate and it's always good to be able to give some of our fortune back to others."

NFL DRAFT WEEK COMMUNITY EVENTS

Showing their skills:The NFL teamed with its Salute to Service partner, the Bob Woodruff Foundation (BWF) and Move United a BWF-NFL Salute to Service grantee to host the 3rd annual USA Wheelchair Football League Veteran All-Star Game. The teams were comprised of 18 veterans, representing various military branches.

Since 2020, more than 1,500 veterans, athletes with disabilities, coaches and officials have participated in USA Wheelchair Football League programs with support from the NFL and BWF, growing their skills and love for football.

Celebrating Girls Flag Football:Girls Flag Football was highlighted during a showcase of the best in the Pittsburgh region. A total of 80 local high school players participated in a Combine-style workout, with college coaches on hand, to demonstrate their skills on the Play Football Field at the NFL Draft Experience at Acrisure Stadium.

The event was part of the Steelers and NFL's continued commitment to support Girls Flag Football, which became a sanctioned sport by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association in the Fall of 2024, with the 2025-26 school year the first sanctioned season, and the inaugural State Championship scheduled for May.

About college Flag Football: At the collegiate level, flag football continues its rapid growth following the NCAA's recent inclusion of the sport in its Emerging Sports for Women program an important milestone toward establishing flag football as a varsity women's sport nationwide. More than 200 colleges and universities across the country are now offering women's flag football programs.

The NFL FLAG College Showcase is operated by RCX Sports and supported by the Pittsburgh Steelers, reflecting a shared commitment to expanding opportunities for girls and women through flag football and celebrating the sport's momentum during one of the NFL's marquee events.

Bringing about change:Inspire Change, the NFL's social justice initiative to reduce barriers to opportunity, brought together the NFL, Steelers and local partners to address homelessness in the greater Pittsburgh area. The event will feature a care kit packing activity in support of Pittsburgh Mercy's Operation Safety Net and Light of Life Rescue Mission, followed by a mentorship session with youth from the Homeless Children's Education Fund.

Participants, including NFL and Steelers leadership and players, engaged with the youth through career development conversations and community-building activities.

Steelers Vice President of Business Development & Strategy Dan Rooney and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell were joined by Steelers players at the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to pack kits for the homeless and those in need in the region.

Players who took part understood the meaning of what they were doing and the importance behind it.

"The Lord has put us in a really special position," said linebacker Payton Wilson. "We live a good life, so it's very important that we give back and give back to the community. Especially the way the world is right now, everything's so expensive, it's hard to afford things, there is lot of homelessness. Being able to help as much as we can and give as much back as we can is important.

"Having the Draft here is drawing more attention to the needs in the community. I feel like we do a really good job of trying to outreach for the community, so it's really cool to see when events are coming into town, not only are we focused on football, we're focused on the community that's around the event that's being held."

The next generation:The Steelers hosted a youth football clinic on Thursday morning at Acrisure Stadium, featuring drills conducted by Steelers legends.

On hand to teach kids from the Pittsburgh area were Charlie Batch, Santonio Holmes and Willie Parker.

The kids took part in the drills, received special gifts and had a group picture taken with the legends at the conclusion.

Providing comfort:Comfort is one thing hospital patients never take for granted, and one of the biggest comforts can often be a warm, cozy blanket.

Steelers long snapper Cal Adomitis delivered that comfort today for those at UPMC's Hillman Cancer Center medical oncology department as part of the NFL's Crucial Catch Initiative.

"It's a great opportunity to show people we're supporting them," said Adomitis. "When I was at Pitt, I had the chance to do some work with UPMC Children's Hospital and Pediatric Cancer Research, so it's cool to be able to be back in Pittsburgh and get involved in the community again."

Adomitis, who is a Pittsburgh native, loves the tradition of giving back that permeates throughout the city and is on display during the NFL Draft.

"The Draft helps to unify the City of Pittsburgh even more," said Adomitis. "I think of Pittsburgh as a little big town. It's a big city, but everybody knows everybody. It's a very connected city and this is an opportunity that shows how connected the city is when it comes to giving back.

"It's awesome how much pride the City of Pittsburgh takes in its sports teams, and it truly is the City of Champions. That includes athletes and teams giving part. I am happy I get to be a part of it.

"I hope the Draft comes back again sometime in the future, but as of now, I'm definitely viewing it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to just witness it here in Pittsburgh. I know the city's is going to show out.

"I think the whole world is going to see how great of a city Pittsburgh is in so many ways."

A tasty treat for a good cause:Steelers players were on hand for Taste of the Draft, a 'tasty' event that featured celebrity chef Andrew Zimmerman.

The event highlighted Pittsburgh's culinary scene, featuring the best bites from more than 20 restaurants and chefs, from local favorites to contemporary creations.

"I mean, I love food," said linebacker Carson Bruener. "I like to eat, and to have the best chefs and the great restaurants here in Pittsburgh having food to sample, it was exciting."

Fellow linebacker Jack Sawyer echoed the sentiment.

"I love trying new food," said Sawyer. "It's just a good time.

"It's great having the Draft here. It's such an exciting and fun time for these guys that are getting drafted, and what a better place to have it than here in Pittsburgh. The city is excited for it."

The event benefits GENYOUth, who the NFL is one of the founding partners, and helps students get the resources they need to thrive in school and beyond, through nutrition and physical activity that is available to students nationwide.

"There's always a bigger picture to everything," said Bruener. "to be involved with something where we can give back to the kids and some that aren't as fortunate, or some people that might have to worry about where their next meal is coming from, it's huge and it's awesome that we are able to do that."

Taste of the Draft will support 91 schools with NFL Flag-in-Schools and reaching 50,000 students by expanding access to 13.5 million school meals, with a focus on at-risk communities.

"We're in such a blessed spot, and I think it breaks all of our hearts to know that a lot of kids do struggle with food insecurity and health and wellness access," said Sawyer. "Anytime we can do anything to help impact that and help out as much as we can with the youth in the community, we always want to do that."

Building a future:Steelers Hall of Fame running back Jerome Bettis joined Lowe's red vest associates to support the construction of two townhomes in Pittsburgh's east-end neighborhood of Larimer as part of a mission with the NFL of solving problems and fulfilling dreams for the home.

This build is part of Habitat for Humanity's Home is the Key initiative, bringing communities together throughout April to unlock access to safe, affordable housing nation-wide. The NFL and Lowe's will also donate products from the NFL Draft Green Room for use at the new development.

Lighting up Pittsburgh:Beginning on Thursday, April 23, a large-scale light projection on the Wyndham Hotel will pay tribute to Pittsburgh's deep football legacy throughout NFL Draft weekend.

The nightly show, running from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. through Saturday, April 25, will spotlight 2026 NFL Draft top prospects and picks, Western Pennsylvania's Hall of Fame football legacy, the Steelers storied history as six-time Super Bowl champions and home of the legendary Steel Curtain, and real-time "On the Clock" team-specific picks.

Powered by 24 laser projectors delivering 768,000 lumens of light across 41,000 square feet of projection surface, the display will be viewable from the public viewing area at Point State Park.

A sneak peek:The NFL provided a preview of all of the key components of the 2026 NFL Draft, with a behind-the-scenes look at final preparations of the North Shore and Point State Park.

Among the aspects that were highlights were the NFL Draft Theater, NFL Draft Experience, Steelers Country and NFL Draft Red Carpet.

Investing in the youth:The NFL Draft is all about the future of football. Those who hear their names called over the next few days on the Draft Stage in Pittsburgh will embark on a further future in the game.

They aren't the only ones with a bright football future though, thanks to a collaboration announced on Wednesday by a number of local and national organizations - including the Steelers who are doing their part to give young athletes in the Pittsburgh region a positive start.

Steelers President Art Rooney II, Steelers Vice President of Business Development & Strategy Dan Rooney, General Manager Omar Khan, Coach Mike McCarthy, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and U.S. Steel CEO David Burritt were on hand, along with other dignitaries, for the ribbon cutting of the U.S. Steel Community Field at Hazelwood Green, a new multipurpose field which was designed to provide recreation, sports, and community space for the Hazelwood community, adjacent Mon Valley and residents across the Pittsburgh area.

"This new facility will be home to great competition, strong bonds and lifelong memories," said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. "With the support of the NFL Foundation, the Steelers, through Steelers Charities, are once again demonstrating their commitment to community and legacy of excellence both on and off the field."

The field was developed in collaboration with the Richard King Mellon Foundation, Tishman Speyer, Hazelwood Green Youth Sports Charities and Steelers Charities. The project is made possible by a $10.8 million grant from the Richard King Mellon Foundation, with additional support from Hazelwood Green Youth Sports Charities, Steelers Charities, Central Catholic High School and the NFL Foundation.

"Football has always been more than a game in Western Pennsylvania it's part of the fabric of our communities," said Art Rooney, II, President of Steelers Charities. "The field allows us to honor generations of families who built this region's football tradition and carry that spirit forward across the wide variety of sports that will be played on this new field. We are proud to help create a place where youth from Hazelwood and across all of Pittsburgh can learn, grow, and experience the confidence, pride and belonging that come from playing team sports."

U. S. Steel Community Field at Hazelwood Green is part of U. S. Steel's commitment to actively engage in the community and bring long-term benefits and vitality to Hazelwood, the neighboring Mon Valley and broader Pittsburgh area.

"For generations, U. S. Steel has been part of the Mon Valley and Pittsburgh," said U. S. Steel President and CEO David Burritt. "We're investing more than one billion dollars in Pennsylvania steelmaking, modernizing our operations, and building for the long term. And we're investing in our communities, too. This field is about building strong communities, where kids can play safely, neighbors can gather, and futures can take shape. Simply put: We're building more than steel. We're building Pennsylvania."

The site for U.S. Steel Community Field at Hazelwood Green is a former 178-acre industrial site, which is located along the Monongahela River. Hazelwood Green is a sustainable mixed-use redevelopment for showing Pittsburgh's leadership in robotics, biotech and advanced manufacturing through partnerships that include Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Innovation Center and the University of Pittsburgh's BioForge, which are complemented by efforts to expand community amenities and housing.

The transformation of the site has been led by site owner Almono LP, a partnership of the Richard King Mellon Foundation, The Heinz Endowments, and the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation. Tishman Speyer is the developer for the entire Hazelwood Green site.

"Today's announcement marks an important milestone in realizing the broader Hazelwood Green vision," said Sam Reiman, Director & Trustee of the Richard King Mellon Foundation. "Already a hub of innovationwith Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburghthe new field, alongside the recently announced housing development, adds critical community infrastructure that brings economic opportunity and quality of life into alignment. We're proud to have played a role in a project that honors Hazelwood's past while strengthening its future."

"We are proud to partner with the Richard King Mellon Foundation, Hazelwood Green Youth Sports Charities, and Steelers Charities to bring this field to Hazelwood Green," said Tishman Speyer CEO, Rob Speyer. "It brings energy to the site and gives young people a place to play and build community."