The Pittsburgh Steelers held their annual Community Partner Appreciation Breakfast at Acrisure Stadium, aiming to highlight the significant contributions of agencies in the region. These partners have worked alongside the Steelers throughout the year, engaging in 77 events across 29 neighborhoods. Their efforts include distributing over 1,500 meals and serving 600 youth during the holiday season. Moreover, the Steelers Social Justice Fund contributed over $500,000 to local organizations.
Blayre Holmes Davis, the Steelers’ Senior Director of Community Relations, expressed gratitude to the attendees: “We know you are the first line of defense for our vulnerable community members,” she said. “Know that we see you, you will always have a partner in us, and we will do the best we can to support you.”
The event featured a panel discussion with Steelers President Art Rooney II and Hall of Fame running back Jerome Bettis, focusing on the team’s commitment to community initiatives. Rooney emphasized the enduring tradition of community leadership reflected by former players like Bettis: “Down through the years we have been fortunate to have players like Jerome on our team.”
Bettis reflected on his roots in community service, citing the influence of Reggie McKenzie, who ran a free football camp and mentoring programs in Detroit. “For me it was pretty easy,” Bettis shared. “I was more compelled than most to want to give back because of so much that was given to me.”
The former Pittsburgh Steeler expressed pride in the organization’s extensive community outreach. “This organization does so much in the community,” Bettis said. “To see the impact they are making, it makes you proud to be a former Pittsburgh Steeler.”
