Since he was drafted by the Steelers in the first round in 2011, Cam Heyward has developed into a leader on the field, earning him the role of defensive captain this year.
Off the field, it's been a similar story.
Heyward has been the Steelers United Way spokesperson, speaking out for their various causes and fundraising efforts every opportunity he has. He also is visible at almost every charitable event the team and his teammates host.
He took that off the field commitment to the next level last year when he launched The Heyward House Foundation, with the main beneficiaries being KidsVoice and the Boys & Girls Club in Pittsburgh.
And on Monday night he held his first major event, "Steel and Steaks," at Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse
"It came together a while ago," said Heyward. "This is a great event where a lot of people I have known that helped me get to this point have come together to support my cause of trying to give back to great organizations. I understand I am in a fortunate position and I am just trying to accommodate them and help in any way that I can."
Guests enjoyed a first-class steak dinner alongside Heyward and a large turnout of his current and former teammates, and also had the chance to bid on items in a silent and live auction.
"It's awesome," said Heyward. "To have players who want to come out to my event to give back it means a lot to me. They understand I take it seriously and that I want to be good on the field and off the field. I have seen other guys and how their organization or foundations have thrived. It all starts with your dedication. I am just trying to work hard to have this grow."
Heyward has wanted to do this type of event for some time, but felt this was the right time to make it happen.
"I wanted people to believe in what I was talking about," said Heyward. "I wanted people to trust in what I was talking about. The only way to do that is through experience and meeting people and showing them how involved I want to be in the community."
