On April 21, The NFL Foundation hosted an afternoon of activities at the Duquesne City School District designed to support students in being well-nourished, mentally strong, and physically active.  

Through GENYOUth’s Super Schools initiative with former Steeler quarterback Charlie Batch, the district received one of 91 grants distributed to Pennsylvania schools that will help increase access to 13 million school meals and empower play opportunities for 50,000 students. Among other items, the district received mobile meal service equipment including rolling carts, insulated bags, bins, and branded display elements that allow staff to set up a high-impact, grab-and-go breakfast station right as students enter the building. The equipment is designed to keep items fresh, organized, and easy to distribute, while also creating a more engaging and visible experience for students.

“As the superintendent here, I truly believe every student can succeed in life. Here at Duquesne, we’re a strong believer of nutrition and physical activity. We’re honored to be a part of this incredible initiative,” said Duquesne City superintendent Dr. Sue Mariani.  

“One in five children in Southwestern Pennsylvania faces food insecurity, and fewer than one in four children nationwide get the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity," added GENYOUth CEO Ann Marie Krautheim. 

"Schools can help close that gap. Our mission is simple yet vital: to ensure children learn, grow, and thrive. I’m deeply grateful to our purpose-driven partners whose commitment is helping us create healthier futures for students."

Batch was joined by former Steeler Arthur Moats, NFL Vice President of Wellness and Clinical Services Dr. Nyaka NiiLampti, and Steelers Vice President of Business Development & Strategy Dan Rooney, among others.  

“As a professional athlete, it’s important to do your best on the field, but it’s just as important to fuel yourselves off the field,” said Batch. “I once sat in your seat with a dream. It starts with not just what you’re doing on the field, but in the classroom.”  

Beyond the Super Schools initiative, the Character Playbook Speaker Series, funded by the NFL Foundation, brought together panelists Like Moats and NiiLampti, along with Middle School students Christian Blair and Shania Mervis, for a nationally live-streamed panel discussion on the importance of fueling both mind and body. After the panel discussion, students participated in breakout sessions, participating in activities to further the discussion around mental and physical health.

“There’s a strong connection between mental and physical health,” said Dr. NiiLampti. “You cannot perform at your peak physically if you’re not strong mentally. And if you’re physically active, there is a positive connection to mental growth. You cannot have one without the other.”  

Afterwards, the NFL Foundation kicked off the NFL FLAG-In-School PLAY 60 Champions, a national initiative and movement that will help students to be active throughout the school day and beyond. As part of the kickoff, students participated in the NFL FLAG-In-School skills and drills clinic.  

Thank you to the NFL Foundation, the Steelers, GENYOUth, and many others for supporting our students, and organizing this impactful and fun day. 

*Photo Credit: The NFL