NFLA members who are current coaches at or alumni of an Historically Black College or University (HBCU) can now benefit from a new assistance fund established by former NFL club executive Scott Pioli.
The Pioli Family Fund For HBCU Coaches and Scouts was announced this month to create opportunities for those individuals affiliated with HBCUs in our great sport of football. It is anticipated that grants will be in the $2,000-$10,000 range and based on need, other funding sources and additional criteria.
James (Shack) Harris and Doug Williams, the co-founders of the Black College Football Hall of Fame, are among those NFL alumni who have expressed their appreciation for this new fund.
“We are very thankful for Scott Pioli’s support,” says Harris, who is a Grambling State grad. “This new fund is a direct representation of Scott’s desire to provide us more development and opportunity in the workplace.”
Pioli is a former college coach and veteran NFL front office executive who earned three Super Bowl rings during his nine years (2000-08) as Vice President of Player Personnel with the Patriots. Pioli has partnered with the Pro Football Hall of Fame to administer his fund because of that Hall’s close association with the Black College Football Hall of Fame which is housed in Canton.
“I want to thank Scott and his family for this HBCU endowment,” says Williams, the former Grambling State coach and current NFL Washington executive. “Scott for many years has championed the cause of advancement for our members. He’s not just talk, but full of action.”
Those NFL Alumni members with HBCU connections who are interested in learning more about the new fund should go to: ProFootballHoF.com/Pioli-Family-Fund/
