Events
Creating community for those in need.
One of the most devastating and long-lasting results of a spinal cord injury (SCI) is isolation—both for SCI individuals and their caregivers. As a result, those with SCIs and their support network often report dealing with depression. And it’s often difficult to find people going through the same challenges, who can relate to both the day-to-day struggles and the little triumphs along the way.
See our monthly events calendar below. You can also check out our private Facebook Groups, The Ryan Shazier Fund Family and The Ryan Shazier Fund Caregivers Portal where you can be part of an active community that strives to exchange ideas that lead to increased independence.
Run for the Black and Gold
Our signature fundraising event takes place on May 15, 2026, at Acrisure Stadium. Our celebrity jockeys and “horses” are in training for what has been traditionally ranked as one of Pittsburgh’s best parties. The mock horse racing event (think of the Kentucky Derby with a Steel City flair) features a roster of current and former Steelers and other Pittsburgh icons! You’ll also enjoy great food, music, a live auction, and the chance to bet on the celebrity race (last year’s winners split a pot of more than $100,000).
SCI Funfest
Join us at the Woodlands for our second SCI Funfest, August 26. Enjoy fun crafts, including creating tie-dyed shirts. Get a free family portrait from a professional photographer. There will also be karaoke with Sing Sing Sing. And enjoy pizza compliments of Caliente Pizza & Drafthouse. The Funfest promises to be a exciting day out for the entire family.
Event Schedule:
1-1:30– Kickoff with The Pine Richland Marching Band- The Quad
1:30-3:30pm– Adaptive Golf with North Hills Golf Academy- Golf Course
2-4pm– Karaoke and Performances from Sing Sing Sing- Lambert Family Amphitheater
1-4pm– Professional Portraits with Amy from Believe, Create, Inspire- Next to Amphitheater
1-4pm– Activities, Crafts, and Games- The Quad
• Wax hands, Caricature drawings, and Tie-Dye T-shirts- Ryan Shazier Fund
• Wheelchair Obstacle Course- United Spinal PGH
• Wiffle Ball Toss- MobilityWorks
• Outdoor Technologies- HERL
• Trivia- Rebuild Better Together
• Bracelet Making- Empowering Hope
• Wheelchair Pong- UPMC Rehabilitation Institute
• Handcycles and Lawn Games- The Woodlands
• Lollipop Tree- Achieva Family Trust
• Puck Toss – Mighty Penguins
• Wheelchair Basketball- Hope Network (on the basketball court)
• Trivia- NextSteps PGH
1-4pm– Caliente Pizza and Graeter’s Ice Cream (Until it is gone!)- The Cafeteria
RSF Pirates Game
Join us at the Pirates game on July 16th! Tickets are free but we've only got a certain amount so sign up now! Click the link to register.
The Ryan Shazier Fund recognizes the importance of community building. We strive to hold events throughout the year that are not only informative but also fun.
— Ryan Shazier