BRILLION, Wis. — The sounds of shotguns blasting at Woodfire Triple J Wing and Clay is nothing new, but recently competitors aiming at clay pigeons included Green Bay Packers alumni.
“We have a great time. You meet all the hunters out here and meet them one on one. You get to spend time with each and every one of them,” said Pro Football Hall of Famer Dave Robinson.
Shooting teams mingled with former Packers to raise money for Curative Connections, which has served the Green Bay Area for over 75 years.
“We specialize in adult day services, so we help families that might be dealing with dementia, early memory loss, people with cognitive challenges that want to gain their independence, or people that are trying to return to the workforce,” said Curative Connections President and CEO Jeanne Stangel.
The event raised $54,300, which went directly to Curative Connections.
“A lot of cases it might be working with a family and it might be a situation where someone had a stroke or a heart attack and is faced with some cognitive rehab that comes along with that,” said Stangel.
The Packers recognized what Curative Connections means to the community.
“Curative Connections has been really great about finding a need that's in the community and solving for that need. They've been great on the transportation front and just really helping those individuals who have had issues with neurological spaces to really help give them that space where they can relearn different skills, and a space that they can call home,” said Packers Community Outreach Manager Amanda Wery.
Recovering from a shoulder surgery, the "Magic Man" Don Majkowski wasn’t able to shoot, but did offer encouragement to participants. He appreciated the opportunity to connect with fans and former players.
“So many different charities that we do volunteer work for, events like this. This is what it’s all about, giving back. I’m honored that they invite us back that they think enough of us to support their cause,” said Majikowski.
Another former green & gold quarterback, Lynn Dickey, added his signature to helmets. Many items were auctioned off for Curative Connections.
“We have very good partners that help support us, so a lot of businesses in the community, the Green Bay Packers have donated a lot of items,” said Stangel. “We’ve got some really cool stuff here.
Besides the funding, the event also helps to raise awareness about their services.
“Get to know Curative Connections before you need us. We deal with the aging process, and everybody at some point in time is going to age,” explained Stangel.
Even pro football players age, but after leaving the game, they’re helping others get needed services, while having a little fun while doing so.