Ryan’s
Events
Creating Community
One of the most devastating and long-lasting results of a spinal cord injury (SCI) is isolation—both for SCI individuals and their caregivers. As a result, those with SCIs and their support network often report dealing with depression. And it’s often difficult to find people going through the same challenges, who can relate to both the day-to-day struggles and the little triumphs along the way.
The Ryan Shazier Fund recognizes the importance of community building. We strive to hold events throughout the year that are not only informative but also fun. See our monthly events calendar. You can also check out our private Facebook Groups, The Ryan Shazier Fund Family and The Ryan Shazier Fund Caregivers Portal where you can be part of an active community that strives to exchange ideas that lead to increased independence.
Woodlands Retreats
Through a partnership with the Woodlands Foundation, the Fund holds three immersive retreats at a fully accessible campsite just outside of Pittsburgh. The retreats give SCI individuals and families an opportunity to participate in recreational activities, work with trained counselors and connect with other families. Participants enjoyed adaptive golf, swimming and handcycling exercises, and caregivers were given time to convene with Ryan’s wife, Michelle Shazier, to discuss their daily challenges, hopes and achievements. The next retreat is scheduled for April 21-23, 2023.
Woodlands Retreats
Through a partnership with the Woodlands Foundation, the Fund holds three immersive retreats at a fully accessible campsite just outside of Pittsburgh. The retreats give SCI individuals and families an opportunity to participate in recreational activities, work with trained counselors and connect with other families. Participants enjoyed adaptive golf, swimming and handcycling exercises, and caregivers were given time to convene with Ryan’s wife, Michelle Shazier, to discuss their daily challenges, hopes and achievements. The next retreat is scheduled for April 21-23, 2023
SCI Funfest
Another opportunity for SCI families to gather and connect, this event scheduled for August 26, 2023, features music, food, and entertainment for the whole family. We’ll have fun crafts including tie-dying. There will be Karaoke with Sing Sing Sing and pizza compliments of Caliente Pizza & Drafthouse.
Run for the
Black And Gold
Black And Gold
Our signature fundraising event takes place on May 20 at Acrisure Stadium. Last year’s party was named one of the best events in the city. The mock horse racing event (think of the Kentucky Derby with a yinzer flair) features celebrity “jockeys,” including current and former Steelers such as Cameron Heyward, T.J. Watt, Kenny Pickett, and Joey Porter. It also features great food, music, a live auction, and the chance to bet on the celebrity race (last year’s winners split a pot of more than $100,000).
Run for the
Black And Gold
Our signature fundraising event takes place on May 20 at Acrisure Stadium. Last year’s party was named one of the best events in the city. The mock horse racing event (think of the Kentucky Derby with a yinzer flair) features celebrity “jockeys,” including current and former Steelers such as Cameron Heyward, T.J. Watt, Kenny Pickett, and Joey Porter. It also features great food, music, a live auction, and the chance to bet on the celebrity race (last year’s winners split a pot of more than $100,000).
UPMC
Celebrity Classic
The Ryan Shazier Fund is one of the beneficiaries of the UPMC Celebrity Classic. During the two-day event, sponsors and guests can enjoy a lovely dinner, play a round of golf, and mingle with sporting greats like Ryan and a host of current and former athletes. This year’s tournament will take place Friday, May 5, 2023, at Allegheny Country Club in Sewickley, PA. Each foursome will be paired with a celebrity or athlete for a round of golf, followed by a cocktail reception. Prior to the tournament, sponsors and guests will join us for the Sponsor and Athlete Party, held Thursday, May 4, 2023, at Acrisure Stadium’s UPMC Club.
UPMC
Celebrity Classic
The Ryan Shazier Fund is one of the beneficiaries of the UPMC Celebrity Classic. During the two-day event, sponsors and guests can enjoy a lovely dinner, play a round of golf, and mingle with sporting greats like Ryan and a host of current and former athletes. This year’s tournament will take place Friday, May 5, 2023, at Allegheny Country Club in Sewickley, PA. Each foursome will be paired with a celebrity or athlete for a round of golf, followed by a cocktail reception. Prior to the tournament, sponsors and guests will join us for the Sponsor and Athlete Party, held Thursday, May 4, 2023, at Acrisure Stadium’s UPMC Club.
