Ben with one of his dogs, Hercules, in Switzerland last year."Growing up in Findlay, Ohio, I always had dogs around my house, and my dad instilled in me a love and respect for animals. Today, I have two wonderful dogs to come home to every day.
Last year, Flip, the lone police dog in my hometown, was shot and killed, so I bought the department a new dog and came up with a concept. Part of my Ben Roethlisberger Foundation -- which already funds a youth football program in Findlay and benefits the Ronald McDonald House in Pittsburgh -- would provide grants to buy a service dog for police and fire departments in every city where we play a game this season and, when we play at home, somewhere in Pittsburgh.
In some cases, the city doesn't need a dog, but it needs bulletproof vests for its animals, just like a regular officer would wear. Many police department budgets don't include funding for protective K-9 vests. The police tell us what's needed.
Unfortunately, I'm not able to meet most of the dogs our grants provide, but I have played with Spike, Flip's successor. He is an amazing animal and can jump right up to the ceiling of an office building -- like 8 feet.
I was raised to appreciate my blessings and always try to help others not as fortunate as myself. Making a difference is about influencing and changing lives. We all have the power to do that. Make A Difference Day is your chance to help your fellow man -- or man's best friend."
- By Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback
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