The Cincy Hat, the charitable hat brand created by Cincinnati Bengals center Ted Karras, announced a new partnership with Cincinnati Metro on Tuesday. The collaboration will produce a Metro‑themed version of the popular Cincy Hat, with sales benefiting The Village of Merici, a local community that provides housing and supportive services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Shared mission of independence
In a press release, Metro highlighted its commitment to helping people with disabilities achieve independence. “Independence includes being able to get where you need to go and take part in the life of your community,” said Brandy Jones, Metro’s Chief Communications and Marketing Officer. “Our Access team helps make those connections possible every day. Partnering with Ted and The Cincy Hat is a meaningful way to celebrate that work and support our shared commitment to people with disabilities.”
Karras, who signed with the Bengals as a free agent in 2022, launched The Cincy Hat nonprofit shortly after joining the team. “Transportation, housing and education all play a role in helping people build independent, fulfilling lives,” he said. “Metro puts that mission into action every day, and we’re proud to partner with them to bring more attention to the opportunities the IDD community deserves.”
How the partnership works
Metro’s Access team members will be authorized to wear the Metro‑branded Cincy Hat as part of their uniform, giving employees a visible way to show support for the cause. The hat will also be available for pre‑order on the organization’s website, allowing the broader public to contribute.
All proceeds from hat sales will be directed to The Village of Merici, which offers a range of services—including assisted living, vocational training, and community integration programs—to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The partnership aims to raise both funds and awareness for these essential services.
Community impact
The collaboration reflects a growing trend of local businesses and nonprofits joining forces to address critical social needs. By leveraging Metro’s public‑transportation reach and the Cincy Hat’s recognizable brand, the initiative hopes to expand its impact beyond the immediate Cincinnati area.
Local residents who purchase the hat will not only receive a stylish, Metro‑themed accessory but also contribute directly to a program that helps vulnerable adults live more independent lives. The partnership underscores the power of community‑focused philanthropy rooted in faith, family values, and individual liberty.
For more information or to place an order, visit the Metro website’s dedicated Cincy Hat page.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
