On Wednesday night, the 49ers players, coaches, and front office gathered at Levi’s Stadium as the 49ers foundation hosted the 4th annual Players For a Purpose season kickoff event. A total of 650,000 dollars was raised from the event, the most in its four-year history.
The players’ mood was light-hearted and fun, as they engaged in an interactive game pitting the defense against the offense, often joking and sharing laughs throughout the night.
Running back, Raheem Mostert and his wife Devon gave the keynote address, delivering an extremely moving speech detailing the incredible adversity that Mostert has overcome in his life, as well as a heartwarming account of the couple’s early beginnings, dating back to their time at Purdue University.
The auction was a hit as well. Some of the items included a George Kittle game-worn jersey and shoulder pads — which Kittle was kind enough to sign on the spot before it was handed over to the winning bidder.
Another lucky fan caught a touchdown pass with a ball that was signed and thrown by quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and a pair of signed cleats from the Garoppolo and wide receiver Deebo Samuel.
All in all, the event was a smashing success, and the record-breaking amount of funds raised will go towards the Foundation’s mission to educate and empower Bay Area youth through collective and innovative community-focused strategies.
All 49ers Foundation programs and beneficiaries will be helped by the generosity of the Faithful and team partners, including the Foundation’s two direct funded programs: 49ers EDU presented by Chevron and 49ers PREP presented by U.S. Bank.