Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman Landon Gross and his wife, Brooke, are hosting a DIY workshop for children to benefit Design to Thrive, a program based at the University of Pennsylvania. The event focuses on providing hands-on creative experiences for kids while raising funds for the UPenn-affiliated initiative.
What is the Design to Thrive program at UPenn?
Design to Thrive is a program hosted by the University of Pennsylvania that uses design-based learning to support the developmental and emotional growth of children. According to the program’s mission, it integrates creative problem-solving and artistic expression to help youth build resilience and cognitive skills. The funds raised through the Gross family’s workshop directly support these educational resources and outreach efforts.
How does the DIY workshop support the cause?
The workshop serves as a fundraising vehicle by charging registration fees that are donated in full to the charity. By hosting a “DIY” (do-it-yourself) event, the Grosses aim to mirror the program’s philosophy of active learning. Participants engage in tactile projects, which aligns with the Design to Thrive goal of fostering creativity through physical construction and design.
Why are the Philadelphia Eagles players involved?
Professional athletes in the NFL often partner with local Philadelphia institutions to increase the visibility of community health and education initiatives. Landon Gross, as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles, leverages his public profile to drive attendance and donations for the university’s program. This partnership connects the professional sports community with academic research and child development programs at one of the city’s primary research universities.
Quick Facts: Event and Beneficiary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Hosts | Landon Gross and Brooke Gross |
| Beneficiary | Design to Thrive (UPenn) |
| Target Audience | Children |
| Funding Model | 100% of proceeds donated |
What happens next for Design to Thrive?
The program continues to expand its reach within the Philadelphia area, utilizing donations from community events to provide materials and staffing for its workshops. As the University of Pennsylvania integrates more interdisciplinary approaches to child development, the program expects to scale its impact by partnering with more community leaders and professional athletes to secure sustainable funding.