News

James Harrison and Kendle Haught

Most people only have the opportunity to see one side of James Harrison, the all-everything linebacker who brings nothing but intensity and passion to the football field.  

But there is a different side to him, where the intensity and passion transcends to a whole new meaning when it comes to helping out children with disabilities.

That side was shining brightly when he hosted the second annual James Harrison Family Foundation Brunch with Santa.

Harrison, along with Santa Claus, posed for pictures with all of the guests and Santa gave Harrison a big thumbs up afterwards.

“James Harrison is on the nice list,” said Santa. “He does a lot for charity. He is a good player, he plays a good game. He is definitely on the nice list.”

Proceeds from the event go towards Harrison’s mission of helping children with disabilities, including doing his part to help a special young girl, Kendle Haught who he met several years ago as part of his involvement with the Muscular Dystrophy Association Muscle Team.

“My wish is that I can help as many children with disabilities that I can,” said Harrison. “Our main goal right now is to get Kendle a handicapped accessible van so she doesn’t have to go through so many obstacles when she is being transported around.”

Harrison spent plenty of time visiting with Haught, laughing and joking with the young girl who calls him her good friend.

“We have the same personalities so we have fun together,” said Haught. “James is special. He is funny and joking all of the time.  On television he never smiles, but he smiles. I get to see that.”

 Some of Harrison’s teammates were also at the event signing autographs or greeting the fans, including Charlie Batch, Ryan Clark, James Farrior, and Brett Keisel.  

“James is a really good guy, he does a lot for the community,” said Clark. “This is one of many events he takes part in and we are all excited to help.”

Harrison, who launched the foundation last year, shares the importance of giving back to others with his two young sons, James and Henry.

“They’re in a position where they are blessed,” said Harrison. “It’s not always like that for everyone else. I want them to see both sides and you need to be able to give.

“It all starts with giving back. It’s something I wanted to do and there is no better cause than to help children, especially those with disabilities.”