In honor of the retirement of beloved Eagles center Jason Kelce, the Eagles Autism Foundation has initiated a matching gift campaign to raise funds for its cause. The foundation is looking to match up to $62,000 in donations, as reported by ABC27. This campaign commenced yesterday and will run until April 1 or until the target amount is met, with the limit for matching set at $1,000 per individual donation.
Kelce's retirement sparked an outpouring of support, leading the Eagles Autism Foundation to quickly move to capitalize on the moment to bolster its initiatives. Ryan Hammond, Executive Director of Eagles Autism Foundation, has recognized the Bantwal family and Goldman Sachs Gives for their substantial contributions to this matching gift. In a statement obtained by ABC27, Hammond expressed gratitude, saying "The Eagles Autism Foundation is so grateful for the Bantwal family’s generosity in celebrating the retirement of one of the foundation’s most devoted supporters, Jason Kelce." The campaign aims not only to honor Kelce's impact but to also help supporters to easily surpass their fundraising goals for the foundation.
Not just fans but neighboring sports franchises have joined the groundswell of support. The Philadelphia Flyers congratulated Kelce on his retirement and made a charitable move by donating to the Eagles Autism Foundation, as reported by NHL.com. The hockey team has shown unity with their city's football hero, remembering when Jason wore Flyers gear on his podcast, "New Heights," during a special Stanley Cup episode.
Meanwhile, Jason Kelce fans have rallied to flood the foundation with their support, according to FOX29. The heartfelt response from the public is a testament to Kelce's legacy in Philadelphia, where he has been idolized since his instrumental role in securing the Eagles' first-ever Super Bowl victory in 2018. The foundation's signature fundraising events are now expected to significantly benefit from the current surge in donations.
The fund-matching initiative marks a tribute to Kelce's 13-season career with the Eagles, during which he became not just a team leader but a Philadelphia legend. Kelce's off-the-field antics, including his iconic speech in costume during the Super Bowl parade, have endeared him forever in the hearts of Philly fans, who continue to show their love through their wallets for a cause close to the sports star's heart.
