$30 Million and Counting: How the Eagles Are Quietly Leading a Revolution in Autism Care !
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
While the Philadelphia Eagles have soared to Super Bowl glory, their greatest legacy may lie beyond the football field. Through the Eagles Autism Foundation, the team is transforming lives—raising over $30 million in just seven years to support groundbreaking autism research and care. This initiative, spearheaded by Eagles Chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lurie, reflects a deeply personal mission and a bold shift from awareness to action.
Autism affects 1 in 100 children globally, touching countless families, including many in the Greater Philadelphia area and even members of IBEW Local 98. Recognizing the need for real change, the Eagles Autism Foundation has committed to funding innovative science, providing vital resources to doctors and researchers, and enhancing care programs for those living with autism.
At the heart of this movement is the annual Eagles Autism Challenge, returning on Saturday, May 17th at Lincoln Financial Field. More than just a charity event, it’s a citywide celebration that unites fans, families, and athletes through a 5k Run/Walk, Bike Race, Sensory Walk, and virtual participation options. Every dollar raised by participants goes directly into autism research and care—a rare and powerful promise in today’s philanthropic world.
The partnership between the Eagles and IBEW Local 98 has been particularly inspiring. Local 98 members have already raised over $75,000, driven by a personal connection to the cause and a belief in the Foundation’s mission. Their ongoing involvement underscores how the Eagles’ work resonates deeply with the community.
This isn’t just a story about football. It’s about a team using its platform to tackle one of the most complex disorders of our time with compassion, commitment, and cutting-edge science. The Eagles aren’t just champions on the field—they’re champions for families, children, and a future where autism care is smarter, stronger, and more hopeful than ever before.
