Community
We strengthen our city and region with programs, investments, and partnerships that support children and families.
our impact
30+
organizations invited to the Crosby Charity Suite
$60K+
raised for HARP from the sale of the Penguins’ Charity Pet Calendar
41
kids invited to a Penguins game through Bryan Rust’s Seats for Strength initiative
Player-led initiatives highlight the significant role athletes play as community leaders. Supported by the Penguins Foundation, these initiatives not only benefit the recipients but also deepen the players' connections with the Pittsburgh region and fans. Many of these programs stem from the personal passions or life experiences of the players, empowering them to champion causes close to their hearts.
Alumni Association
The Penguins Alumni Association and its members are integral to the Penguins organization, serving as ambassadors for the sport and organizing events to fund important causes throughout the year. These alumni who have been cheered for their on-ice achievements, including Stanley Cup Championships, are recognized for their community involvement, span generations, and have helped foster a deep love for the game. The association consistently hosts events to support various causes and local charities, emphasizing the ongoing commitment of the alums both on and off the ice.
Crosby Charity Suite
Sidney Crosby welcomes children from local charities to his suite at PPG Paints Arena to enjoy Penguins home games. These special gameday guests are treated to an in-game welcome announcement, a visit from Iceburgh, and complimentary food and non-alcoholic drinks.
Hayes’ Heroes
To honor and recognize the sacrifices that first responders make for the community, Kevin Hayes has established the Hayes’ Heroes program. Each selected first responder is awarded two tickets to a home game, a thoughtful gift, and an invitation to a post-game meet and greet. This initiative is a token of his appreciation, offering these community heroes a chance to enjoy a special experience along with the thrill of the game
$280K
donated to RMHC over the past two seasons
I’m Score for Kids
Pittsburgh Penguins’ center Evgeni Malkin’s ‘I’m Score for Kids’ initiative supports the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Pittsburgh and Morgantown, WV.. Wearing No. 71, Malkin has committed to donating $710 for every regular-season point he scores. In the 2024.25 season, with 50 points, his contribution totaled $35,500. Local McDonald’s restaurants have matched his donation, bringing the combined total to over $280,000 donated to RMHC over the past two seasons.
Players4Purpose
Players4Purpose is a fundraising initiative that helps local organizations raise money through special ticket sales. This program is available to local 501(c)(3) nonprofits, including booster clubs, youth sports teams, charities, foundations, civic groups, and schools. Through this initiative, the Penguins offer specially priced tickets for select games, and a portion of the proceeds is donated to a designated organization. For example, in 2024, the team introduced a “Players4Purpose” monthly matchup, where fans could select a charity to receive $5 from each ticket they purchased.
Project Bundle-Up
The Penguins Project Bundle-Up, a heartwarming community initiative, is a collaborative effort between the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Salvation Army, and DICK’S Sporting Goods. This special event takes place annually after a team practice when Penguins players dedicate an afternoon to personally assisting local children in finding and purchasing essential winter outerwear, ensuring they are well-equipped for the cold months ahead.
During the event, children can select brand-new coats, boots, hats, gloves, and scarves, ensuring they stay warm and feel confident in their winter gear. Penguins players help them make their selections, offer style advice, and share a few laughs along the way. Each child leaves the store with high-quality winter apparel and player autographs.
Seats for Strength
Seats for Strength is an initiative led by Bryan Rust, a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Pittsburgh Penguins, who has battled with stuttering since childhood. Rust has turned his challenges into a platform for empowering children with speech impediments. Supported by the Foundation and the organization Friends Who Stutter (FRIENDS), the program provides VIP tickets to Penguins games for children who stutter and their families. Rust shares his experiences post-game and encourages these young attendees to build confidence and resilience.
Spouses and Partners
The Lady Pens, spouses and partners of the Pittsburgh Penguins, actively support the Penguins Foundation and local nonprofits throughout the season. These dedicated individuals contribute on game days and within the community by assisting with special events and spearheading their initiatives to benefit various charities. Their efforts include supporting the Foundation during games, collaborating with local charities, and developing unique products such as a cookbook and candles inspired by cherished hockey memories to raise funds and awareness for important causes.
Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Library Cards
Military Salute
Penguins Make-A-Wish Day
Rainbow Kitchen
Stuff-A-Bus
Thanksgiving Turkey Distribution
Penguins Foundation Brings Programming to Braddock Library
