The Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund is a non-profit, 501(c) (3) corporation, established to provide financial assistance and coordinate social services to dire need retired NFL players who are pioneers of the game and have greatly contributed to the NFL's status as the most popular sport in America.

The Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund provides hands-on assistance and financial aid to help retired NFL players deal with some of the hardships they may encounter after football.  Many of these players lack funds, disability coverage or pension benefits. Thus the GGAF focuses on the humanitarian side of these players, treating them with dignity, and addressing the post-football related issues in their lives. 

The idea for the Fund started over 25 years ago…because of a stolen Super Bowl ring.  Jerry Kramer, NFL Hall of Fame lineman for the Green Bay Packers, had his Super Bowl I championship ring stolen.  He subsequently had a replica ring produced.  He later discovered his original ring was being auctioned
on-line. The auction company, Mastros Auctions, returned the original Super Bowl I ring to Kramer.  In return, Kramer gave his replica ring to Mastros Auctions where $22,000 was raised.  Kramer founded Gridiron Greats and the $22,000 became the initial capital for the organization.

The Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund is supported through numerous donations and fundraising activities throughout the year including special events, auctions of memorabilia, autograph events, corporate and public donation drives, sponsorships and special Super Bowl related events.

Retired players may apply for temporary assistance for medical costs as well as some of the basic necessities of life including, but not limited to, food, housing, transportation, clothing and other basic needs.

In addition to financial support, the Fund also assists with the coordination and resourcing of other types of assistance that may be available through a variety of different agencies and social services.  Efforts are also made to secure “pro bono” medical care, medications, and other needs specific to the player.

For more information visit www.gridirongreats.org