The Steelers‘ star QB Russell Wilson and Ciara know how to grab attention. Whether it’s on the field or in the community. But their latest project in Pittsburgh isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s about creating opportunities and fostering hope.
The couple’s latest project promises to uplift the youth of Pittsburgh. Showing how one can combine philanthropy with creativity. Russell announced the opening of the first-ever ‘Why Not You Center‘ at Pittsburgh’s Boys & Girls Club. On X, Wilson shared his excitement. “We launched our 1st ever ‘WHY NOT YOU Center’ today at the Boys & Girls Club in Pittsburgh! A dream come true!” The center is a reflection of Wilson’s deep personal connection to his father’s legacy.
The “Why Not You” mantra, which his late father instilled in him, continues to shape Russell’s life and work. His father, Harrison Wilson, was a big dreamer. And Russell carries that spirit forward by asking, Why not you? to inspire others. The center manifests the core mission of Wilson’s foundation, which he founded a decade back in 2014.
The nonprofit focuses on empowering the youth. Through education, health initiatives, and leadership development. The mantra “Why Not You” shaped Wilson’s life. Right from becoming a Super Bowl champion to inspiring young minds today. And he wants others to be inspired in the very same way.
For Wilson, this center is a dream realized, and it’s just the beginning of his vision for uplifting underserved communities. While Russell is focused on building the center, Ciara is taking a creative approach to giving back.
Ciara’s creative touch: Music, fans, and community
Ciara connects with the community through music. On December 10, she invited fans to feature in her new music video, blending art with outreach. She has teamed up with Colossal Impact for an exciting competition that brings fans closer to her music. This invitation isn’t just about the spotlight. But building a bridge between creativity and charity.
Ciara’s move echoes the foundation’s goals, proving that engagement can be impactful and fun. Ciara is looking for 8 talented dancers. Why? Well! To compete for a chance to feature in her next music video. Yes! You heard that right. A feature in a Grammy Award-winning video would be something many would surely die for. But that’s not all.
The winner also gets a whopping $20,000 prize. And it all rallies back to the Why Not You Foundation, as the initiative is a way to support the foundation. All the donations from the competition will benefit the foundation and its mission to empower the youth. As for the dancers, there’s another novelty. They also get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to learn from the best in the business.
Jamaica Craft will be judging the live competition alongside her. She has been Ciara’s choreographer since ‘Goodies‘ was released. Jamaica has also worked with stars like Usher, Justin Bieber, and Nicki Minaj. While Ciara makes her message to the dancers clear – “This could be your big break!” With public voting narrowing down the contenders, the competition offers dancers an opportunity to shine. In a heartfelt video on Instagram, Ciara called on participants to “step your way as the star of the next dance icon.”
Together, Russell Wilson and Ciara highlight how personal and professional passions can create meaningful change. Their efforts in Pittsburgh demonstrate what happens when ambition meets heart. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to make your mark!