Empowering Youth Through Sports in Westmoreland County

December 19, 2025

Across Westmoreland County, families, educators, and community leaders are working together to create brighter futures for young people. Yet many youth still face barriers to positive, structured activities that build confidence, character, and opportunity.

At Gridiron Home, we believe sports can be a powerful pathway for youth development when they are rooted in mentorship, discipline, and care. Our mission is simple: to provide free, structured sports programs that help young people grow on and off the field, regardless of background or financial situation.


As one of the youth nonprofits serving Westmoreland County and Western Pennsylvania, Gridiron Home is committed to helping young athletes become strong leaders, teammates, and community members.


The Power of Sports in Youth Development


Youth sports are about more than competition. When programs are intentional and supportive, they help young people develop life skills that last far beyond the season.


National youth development research consistently shows that structured sports programs help youth:


  • Build confidence and self-esteem
  • Learn discipline and accountability
  • Develop teamwork and communication skills
  • Practice goal-setting and resilience
  • Form positive relationships with caring adult mentors


For youth who may lack access to organized programs, these benefits are especially important. Sports provide routine, positive role models, and a safe environment to grow during critical developmental years.


Access matters. Families in Westmoreland County deserve youth sports opportunities that are not limited by cost, experience level, or financial hardship.


What Makes Gridiron Home Different


Gridiron Home exists to remove barriers and create opportunity through sports.


Free and Accessible Programs


All Gridiron Home programs are completely free for participating families. We believe cost should never prevent a child from learning teamwork, leadership, and confidence.


The E.D.G.E. Philosophy


Every practice and interaction is guided by our E.D.G.E. philosophy:


  • Effort: Showing up and giving your best
  • Discipline: Building habits that support growth
  • Grit: Pushing through challenges
  • Execution: Following through with purpose


These values shape how we coach, mentor, and support youth both on and off the field.


Inclusive and Mentorship-Driven


Gridiron Home serves both boys and girls in a safe, structured, and supportive environment. Our coaches and volunteers are mentors first, focused on teaching respect, accountability, and leadership alongside athletic skills.


We use youth sports as a tool for personal development, not just competition.


Community Impact in Westmoreland County

Westmoreland County is home to strong schools, families, and community organizations. Still, many young people lack access to consistent, affordable youth development programs.


Local educators and mentors see how limited opportunities can affect confidence, behavior, and long-term success. Gridiron Home helps fill that gap by offering structure, encouragement, and positive role models.


Through partnerships with schools, community centers, churches, and local leaders, Gridiron Home works to meet youth where they are and strengthen the surrounding community.


“Gridiron Home gave my child structure, confidence, and positive role models. It is more than sports. It is mentorship.”
- Gridiron Home Parent


As one of the youth nonprofits serving Westmoreland County, our impact is measured not just in athletic skills, but in growth, effort, and character.


How the Community Can Get Involved


Gridiron Home is built on community support. There are many ways to help strengthen youth sports and mentorship in Westmoreland County.


Enroll a Child


Families interested in free youth sports programs in Westmoreland County can learn more about upcoming sessions and registration opportunities through our programs page.


Volunteer or Coach


Positive adult mentors make a lasting difference. We welcome volunteers and coaches who want to give back and support youth development through sports.


Donate or Partner


As a nonprofit organization, Gridiron Home relies on community support to keep programs free and accessible. Donations and partnerships directly support equipment, facilities, and mentorship opportunities.


Building a Stronger Future Together


Gridiron Home’s vision for Westmoreland County is long-term. We see a future where every young person has access to positive mentors, structured activities, and opportunities to grow into confident, responsible adults.


When youth sports are done with purpose and care, they can change lives. With the support of families, educators, donors, and volunteers, Gridiron Home will continue to be a trusted partner in youth development across Western Pennsylvania.


We invite you to be part of the change in our community and in the lives of our youth.

By Rob Hamilton April 28, 2025
Gridiron Home, a new nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering foster youth through sports, mentorship, and educational support, is excited to announce its launch in Westmoreland and Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. This initiative will bring crucial resources and opportunities to young individuals who are navigating the foster care system, reinforcing their potential and fostering their success. Founded on the principles of community, resilience, and empowerment, Gridiron Home utilizes the power of athletics to provide a structured, supportive environment for youth. Through mentorship programs, academic support, and leadership training, the organization equips young individuals with E.D.G.E. to succeed: E – Effort: Always give 100%. D – Discipline: Build focus, commitment, and smart decision-making. G – Grit: Develop resilience to overcome life’s challenges. E – Execution: Master follow-through and accountability. Rob Hamilton, Founder of Gridiron Home, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch: “Westmoreland County is a community that values hard work, determination, and support. By starting Gridiron Home here, we have the opportunity to provide foster youth with the mentorship, resources, and encouragement they need to thrive. We are calling on local businesses, volunteers, and donors to help us build a strong foundation for these young individuals.” Jessica Gilmore, Vice President of the Board of Gridiron Home, emphasized the need for community involvement: “Our mission is to ensure that foster youth in Westmoreland County have access to the resources, guidance, and stability they need to succeed. But we can’t do this alone. We need sponsors, volunteers, and donors to step up and help us make a lasting impact on these young lives.” Gridiron Home is grateful to have a dedicated Board of Directors committed to guiding the organization’s mission and ensuring its success. Their leadership and passion for helping foster youth play a vital role in the development and growth of this initiative. As a new organization, Gridiron Home is actively seeking local partners, businesses, and individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of foster youth. Sponsorship opportunities, donation programs, and volunteer positions are available to support the organization's mission and growth.  For more information on how to support or get involved with Gridiron Home in Westmoreland County, visit www.gridironhome.org .
By Rob Hamilton April 22, 2019
Help Us Give Every Child a Chance to Play: Support Gridiron Home Today