The Steelers have a rich tradition of supporting the community and that continued during the team's recent United Way fundraising campaign, when 100 percent of the players participated by making a donation.
"There is no question that when we unite we can make Pittsburgh an even better place to live," said Steelers President Art Rooney II, who is also serves as Chairman of the United Way Board of Directors. "I'm extremely proud of our players, who place a high value on supporting our community."
Donations will benefit a wide variety of United Way agencies, helping programs for children, the elderly, the neglected and abused, among others.
"We consider this to be another huge victory for the city of Pittsburgh," said Bob Nelkin, United Way of Allegheny County President and Chief Professional Officer. "The Steelers have set a great example, and we hope the community will follow our hometown champs' longstanding dedication to bettering our community through support of the United Way.
"Campaigns are still under way all over the city, and we hope fellow Pittsburghers will follow the Steelers' lead by Living United for a Greater Pittsburgh."
The Steelers support United Way programs throughout the season, including the annual Hometown Huddle and Play60 and other youth activities and hosting the United Way's campaign kickoff each year during a preseason game.
Quarterback Charlie Batch serves as the team;s United Way spokesman and is proud of the response from the players.
"It's something you hope to get every year," said Batch. "I think it shows how dedicated the players are to the United Way. It makes me smile. The message I preach to businesses around Pittsburgh when taking about the United Way is that we like to set the bar for other teams around the NFL. We want people to match that what we are doing to increase the numbers for the United Way. We are at 100 percent and we would like to keep it that way."
For more information on this year's campaign or to donate, visit www.unitedwaypittsburgh.org.
United Way of Allegheny County is a change agent and efficient community fundraiser that improves lives by addressing critical community needs. By convening diverse partners and investing in programs and people to advance solutions, United Way creates long-lasting change and helps children and youth succeed, strengthens and supports families by promoting financial stability, ensures the safety and well-being of vulnerable seniors, and provides county-wide access to information and referral sources meeting basic needs.
