Travis Kelce Chokes Up Talking About the Kids His 87 & Running Foundation Is Helping: ‘Beautiful to See’

Mar. 15, 2025

Travis Kelce.Photo:Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty

Travis Kelceis proud of the work his foundation87 & Runningis doing for the youth in Kansas City.

The tight end raved over Operation Breakthrough’s space in Kansas City, calling it “one of the coolest places that I’ve ever seen or been a part of,” during his appearance on the radio show.

“They literally have kids from preschool all the way to 8th grade, and they’re making sure these kids have meals, a safe haven; they get their education, they have good guidance and mentors,” Kelce explained.

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87).Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty

Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty

The Chiefs star said he readCat in theHatduring that first visit to the youth center. “And when I tell you that I hadn’t read a Dr. Seuss book in forever…I was over there trying to read these things just like these pre-schoolers were,” he joked before trying to pronounce some of the iconic children’s author’s whimsical words and rhymes.

“It was beautiful to see what that organization was doing for those kids,” Kelce continued. “And it was a little unsettling at the end when I found out that the program stopped at eighth grade.”

Kelce then partnered with Operation Breakthrough to open theIgnition Labin 2021, and provide programming for students beyond middle school. Now, kids aged 14 to 18 can get real-life training in skills like graphic design, automotive repair and cooking.

The tight end shared how his high school years “were such a big part of my development and who I am as a person.”

“I was so fortunate that I had the people around me and the environment around me to make sure I was doing the right things,” he added.

Travis Kelce #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs.Candice Ward/Getty

Candice Ward/Getty

Kelce sounded emotional, even pausing for a moment to gather himself, when talking about the kids he met who have grown up and begun pursuing their dreams.

Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories

“It’s just been a beautiful thing because a lot of those kids that I was reading to in preschool are now in the Ignition Lab and doing great things with their lives,” said Kelce. “And its just cool to see it all manifest and all come to life.”

And beyond his efforts to give back to the Kansas City community, Kelce is making Chiefs fans proud this season as the team remains undefeated after nine games. Next, they’ll head out on the road to play the Buffalo Bills on Nov. 17.

source: people.com