South Florida’s football community celebrated a major philanthropic milestone this season when the James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational generated more than one million dollars in charitable contributions. The tournament, a staple of the region’s sports calendar, paired high‑level competition with a clear purpose: to support nonprofits that serve the health, housing, youth and education needs of local families.
Event highlights and donor impact
Ken Kennerly, executive director of the James Hardie Invitational, told WPBF 25 News that the $1 million figure represents “a pretty incredible milestone” for the organization. He emphasized that the money will be distributed among a range of partner charities, each focused on a different pillar of community well‑being. Health‑care groups will receive funding to expand services for underserved patients, while housing organizations will use the gifts to assist families facing eviction or homelessness. Youth development programs will benefit from new resources for after‑school activities, mentorship and sports clinics, and education nonprofits will be able to provide scholarships and school supplies to students in need.
All of the proceeds come from a combination of ticket sales, corporate sponsorships, on‑site auctions and individual donations collected throughout the three‑day event. The tournament attracted former Hall of Famers, current NFL stars and local business leaders, creating a vibrant atmosphere that blended competitive spirit with a shared commitment to service.
Looking ahead to the next invitational
The James Hardie Invitational is slated to return in March 2027. Organizers have indicated that ticket sales will open closer to the event date, and they expect the charitable model to continue expanding. Community members who wish to attend or support the cause are encouraged to keep an eye on the official website and local media for updates on ticket availability.
Beyond the immediate financial impact, the event underscores the power of sports to unite neighborhoods around common values. By channeling the excitement of football into tangible assistance for families, the Invitational reinforces the tradition of giving that has long been a hallmark of South Florida’s athletic culture.
For those interested in learning more about the specific charities benefiting from the fundraiser, the James Hardie organization will release a detailed list of recipients in the weeks following the tournament. This transparency ensures donors can see exactly how their contributions are making a difference in the lives of South Florida residents.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
