The Buffalo Bills Alumni Foundation has a rich relationship with the Western New York community, and as of last week has donated over $100,000 to local charities in the past year and over $2 million in the past 20 years.
"We think this is our way of giving back to you, the community, because you were so good to us when we were playing for the Buffalo Bills," said Alumni President Ed Rutkowski. "These charitable organizations have made quite a statement and we feel we've made quite a statement in giving back."
This year's primary recipient at the Annual Charity Check Presentation Luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Downtown Buffalo last week was the Food Bank of WNY. The following organizations were also honored and received donations from the Alumni Foundation:* *Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, National MS Society Upstate NY Chapter, Variety Club Telethon, Touching Base, Special Olympic Foundation, Inc., Dan R. Acker Scholarship Program, F.A.T.H.E.R.S., Urban Christian Ministries, Buffalo Prep, Clarence "Rock," Connor Scholarship Program, Ilio DiPaolo Scholarship Program, Cross Training Football, Shaken Baby Syndrome Education Program, St. Luke's Mission of Mercy, Nativity Miguel Middle School, Character Council of WNY, Alzheimer's Assoc. of WNY, Cape Ability Outrigger Ohana, Inc., Wounded Warrior Project, Project L.E.E., Seneca Diabetes Foundation, Medina Memorial Healthcare Foundation, Crisis Service, WNY Independent Living, NICYO Program, Mikey's Way Foundation and Anthony V. Mannino Foundation.
Several members of the Buffalo Bills Alumni were on hand for the luncheon as well as many of the sponsors who have supported the fundraising efforts of the Alumni Foundation over the years.
"This really is the highlight of the year for our Foundation," said Alumni Treasurer Charley Ferguson. "These organizations that receive this support from us are so very appreciative, and we are happy to help them out in any way possible so they may continue bringing those needed programs and services to our community."
The Buffalo Bills Alumni Foundation was founded in 1999 and is made up of past Bills players who have left an imprint on society during their football careers and want to continue molding society in a positive manner. Click here for more information.
