Copyright Athlon Sports
Travis Kelce excels in his 13th season, contributing to the Kansas City Chiefs’ 4-3 record. His 87 and Running Foundation supports Kansas City youth through education and innovation programs. “We’re just extremely thankful for you guys showing up…giving these kids everything they could dream about.” Travis Kelce has been making waves on the field in his 13th season with the Kansas City Chiefs. The 10-time Pro Bowl tight end has been a key piece to his team’s success in the early part of the NFL season. In seven games played, Kelce has registered 31 catches for 375 yards and two touchdowns, helping lead the Chiefs to a 4-3 record. Kelce had one of his best games of the campaign on Sunday as Kansas City destroyed its AFC West rivals, the Las Vegas Raiders, in a dominant 31-0 shutout. The 36-year-old TE caught three passes from quarterback Patrick Mahomes for a game-high 54 receiving yards. Off the field, Kelce has firmly established himself as a prominent figure in Kansas City. In September, Kelce teamed up with Mahomes to open their own high-end steakhouse in downtown KC, 1587 Prime. Kelce has also been known for his philanthropic work. The Chiefs star has a nonprofit organization, 87 and Running Foundation, which “empowers disadvantaged youth to achieve success by providing resources and support to their communities and cultivating their talent in the areas of education, business, athletics, STEM, and the arts.” On Tuesday, Kelce spearheaded his annual Celebrity Challenge to benefit the youth programs of Operation Breakthrough, an education center in KC. The event raised funds for the “Ignition Lab” program, one of Kelce’s signature community projects. It is a youth innovation center created by the 87 and Running Foundation. Kelce’s move away from the football field has drawn praise from the fans on social media. “That smile is everything, such a beautiful soul! ❤️” a comment on Instagram read. “He is happy to help. Travis is a good man 👏❤️” another said. “One of my fave people supporting my hands down fave KC nonprofit. Operation Breakthrough makes my heart happy! Go Ignition Lab!!” a user posted. “beautiful inside and out.👏” a reaction read. “Solid dude 🔥🔥🔥❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️” said another. “He’s just the greatest 🫶” declared a fan. Kelce also addressed the event attendees on Tuesday night, thanking everyone for joining him in his goal to elevate the lives of Kansas City youth. “The job of providing these kids around the city of Kansas City with things that they wouldn’t have otherwise, and we’re just extremely thankful for you guys showing up on nights like tonight that gives these kids everything they could ever dream about,” Kelce said. “Thank you guys for being a part of this year in, year out.” Kelce is not only one of the greatest tight ends to ever pick up a football. His initiatives away from the NFL also serve as a testament to how this man has a genuine desire to share his blessings with those around him, especially those who are less fortunate.
