From Teresa Varley, Steelers.com:
Heyward knows the difference giving back to the community can make.
Live United…two words, so simple but yet so powerful. They serve as a slogan for the United Way, but as a way of life for those in the community they unite.
For Steelers defensive end Cam Heyward, Live United has special meaning.
“It’s staying connected throughout the community,” said Heyward. “The United Way serves as a bridge to help us give back and to unite as one and stay united.”
Heyward is in his second year serving as the Steelers representative for the United Way, carrying on a tradition that began 41 years ago when the NFL and United Way became partners to assist the communities they serve. Franco Harris was the first Steelers player to lend a hand to the cause, and others who have played key roles in the relationship include Steelers founder Art Rooney Sr. and team President Art Rooney II. Heyward takes pride in carrying on that tradition.
“They have all taken pride in the community and being involved with the United Way,” said Heyward. “I want to continue that and keep on trying to improve upon it. It’s so important to be involved. There are so many people who helped me get where I am today. I am very blessed and in a humbling position. I want to have a chance to give back to my community.
“Playing for such a prominent, historical team like the Steelers you see so much involvement in the community and what it means. It’s just continuing to give back. Being a part of the United Way and the Pittsburgh Steelers I have to hold myself up to a higher standard. I don’t want to let the Steelers name or United Way name down. I take a lot of pride in that and make sure I am holding up my end.”
“Cam is a leader on the field and a leader in the community, helping people understand the vital needs of our neighbors in our region and the best ways to help them,” said Bob Nelkin, President and Chief Professional Officer, United Way of Allegheny County.
“Cam has been phenomenal not just talking about the needs in the community and the message, but it’s great that he has that Pittsburgh connection,” said Megan Marucco, Senior Corporate Relations Manager at United Way of Allegheny County. “When he is out in the community for us, it’s not about ego, not I am here because I am a professional football player, but instead it’s I am here for the community. Having that genuine nature really just blew me away from the first time he spoke to a group. He is very open to talking about his life, his experience following in his father’s footsteps. I am so impressed with the genuineness he has and shows with everyone. The gratitude he shows to the higher end donors is the same that he shows to the people that work for the agencies. He treats everyone the same.”
Read more HERE.
