During each holiday season, professional football players have the opportunity to advocate for causes and organizations that matter to them. Through the My Cause My Cleats initiative, players take to the field wearing specially designed cleats that feature the logos, names, and messages of non-profit organizations making a positive impact in their communities. The philanthropic […]
During each holiday season, professional football players have the opportunity to advocate for causes and organizations that matter to them. Through the My Cause My Cleats initiative, players take to the field wearing specially designed cleats that feature the logos, names, and messages of non-profit organizations making a positive impact in their communities.
The philanthropic network Stand Together plays a pivotal role in connecting players with innovative non-profit leaders who are addressing the issues they are most passionate about. For 2024, Stand Together collaborated with three pro football players for My Cause My Cleats, assisting them in showcasing the stories behind their social impact efforts and the significant influence these organizations are creating.
Stand Together’s My Cause My Cleats partnerships feature: Tampa Bay running back Rachaad White supporting CarePortal; New Orleans linebacker Demario Davis advocating for Stand Together, which collaborates with thought leaders to reshape education from a one-size-fits-all approach to personalized learning that caters to each student’s unique talents; and Pittsburgh safety Miles Killebrew and his association with Café Momentum Pittsburgh, which leverages the restaurant setting to equip youth involved in the justice system with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to succeed.
Each organization stands out with its own innovative approach, and the support each player offers stems from their personal connection.
White’s motivation comes from growing up with friends in the foster care system. Despite his mother’s efforts to help and care for those friends, their journeys were still challenging. This sparked White’s dedication to CarePortal, a tech solution that connects the largest network of compassionate individuals to address the needs of children and families in crisis.
Prior to being drafted into professional football, Davis worked as a substitute teacher. There, he witnessed the varying needs of students, as well as the shortcomings of a “one-size-fits-all” education system. As a result, Davis and his wife Tamela Gill-Davis founded Devoted Dreamers to emphasize personalized learning. To expand their vision, they joined forces with Stand Together to access their extensive resources and connections to amplify their reach.
Miles Killebrew shines both on the field and in the community. His commitment to the Steelers’ legacy of supporting Pittsburgh is evident in his enthusiasm for Café Momentum Pittsburgh. Established in 2015 by chef Chad Houser, Café Momentum has now expanded to various locations across the nation and has positively impacted over 1,200 youth through its paid internship program, aimed at transforming the lives of justice-involved youth via culinary and restaurant industry training, along with comprehensive support services. Stand Together has collaborated with Café Momentum, offering them tools, networking opportunities, and guidance to help them expand their impact in Pittsburgh.
The mini-documentary Killebrew created with Stand Together is featured above, providing insight into his dedication to the organization, alongside showcasing the culinary talents of Neiko, one of its young interns. Be sure to watch until the end to witness Killebrew gifting Neiko a pair of custom Café Momentum cleats, representing all he has achieved and a reminder to stay focused on his path.
Killebrew also took a moment to discuss Café Momentum Pittsburgh and My Cause My Cleats with Complex. Keep scrolling to discover more insights from Killebrew, and then check out Stand Together and CafeMomentum.org for further information.
For this year’s My Cause My Cleats, you’re championing Café Momentum in Pittsburgh. What can you share about Café Momentum?
Café Momentum is an award-winning national organization that provides opportunities for youth who have experienced the justice system to reshape their lives by acquiring skills in the restaurant industry. They operate a physical location in Pittsburgh that serves as a full-service restaurant, where patrons can enjoy meals and excellent service, all provided by these incredible youths who have transformed their lives through the culinary profession. It’s fantastic. I’m thrilled every time I meet these young people.
Can you describe the design of your cleats and what it signifies for Café Momentum?
Absolutely. I think my cleats are the coolest. I eagerly anticipate wearing them. They are gold, complementing our color palette, while prominently featuring the Café Momentum logo. They’re elegantly simple, yet striking, and pay tribute to the brand and its identity.
Who was responsible for the design and creation of the cleats?
Oh, definitely Cody Sabol. Cody is an excellent person. I’ve collaborated with him previously. He’s a great ally of the Steelers and produces fantastic work. The Steelers coordinate this for any players who seek a creative touch. They work directly with Cody, who consistently produces exceptional results.
When you’re wearing these cleats, collaborating with Café Momentum and Stand Together, does it inspire you a bit more on the field? Like playing for something greater?
Oh, absolutely. Everything we don is intentional and carries significance or purpose. When I look down and think, Today, I’m representing something beyond myself, something larger than just the Pittsburgh Steelers. I’m involved with a community partner I genuinely believe in, it definitely adds an extra drive. I want to make plays and celebrate Café Momentum while doing it.
Completely understandable. Late in the season, I know the stakes are elevated, and drawing additional inspiration from a meaningful cause must be gratifying. Can you share a bit about collaborating with Stand Together and how it connects with Café Momentum?
Certainly. Stand Together has been instrumental in fostering this connection between me and Café Momentum. They are fundamentally important. They facilitated the creation of this short documentary.
A little mini documentary.
The documentary, which was fantastic. Stand Together played a crucial role in facilitating that process and in producing it. They effectively bridge connections between numerous players and organizations. For me, Café Momentum exemplifies one of those partnerships they nurture.
I’ve had the chance to see the documentary, and it’s incredible. Very motivational. Can you elaborate on how Stand Together made that possible?
Absolutely. Stand Together oversees the entire process from my perspective and from Café Momentum’s perspective. They manage the entire linkage process, ensuring we capitalize on that relationship, grasping the motivations of Café Momentum. Why they do what they do? What drew me to Café Momentum in the first place? They simplified my involvement and allowed me to articulate my intentions regarding Café Momentum clearly. It was a really rewarding process, as Stand Together has extensive experience in connecting those who wish to help with those already providing that help.
So, of course, what’s your favorite dish at Café Momentum in Pittsburgh?
Oh wow. The last time I visited, I had an amazing pasta dish that I keep forgetting the name of. It was incredibly simple, but I absolutely love Italian cuisine.
I recommend any of the pasta options they prepare. All are fantastic. But this particular dish had a delightful vodka sauce with vegetables. It was quite straightforward. I can attest that Café Momentum’s dishes are always of the highest quality; every time I’ve been fortunate enough to sample their food. They genuinely prioritize every detail, ensuring a superb experience.
Any final resources for people who want to support Café Momentum?
Absolutely. Anyone interested in getting involved with Café Momentum or learning more about their mission can check out their website, cafemomentum.org. It’s quite user-friendly. You can find their restaurant located in downtown Pittsburgh, or perhaps there’s a location near you if you’re not local. It’s definitely worth visiting, but if you live far away and a location isn’t accessible, their online presence is a fantastic way to see how one can get involved and gain insight into the program.
Perfect. Thank you, Miles.
Thank you very much. It’s been a privilege.
