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Four Green Bay Packers players came together on Monday at the Lambeau Field Atrium to make a difference, not just for their fans but for the greater Green Bay community. A.J. Dillon, Bo Melton, Quay Walker, and Evan Williams spent time signing autographs and engaging with supporters, all to benefit the Salvation Army.
This event was more than just an opportunity to collect autographs—it was a chance to support families in need during the holiday season while creating unforgettable moments for fans.
Fans donated a minimum of $50 to have their memorabilia signed by the players, with all proceeds going toward the Salvation Army. The funds raised are crucial in aiding families, seniors, and individuals experiencing homelessness in the Green Bay area.
According to Salvation Army Capt. Maj. Catherine Fitzgerald, the donations will help cover operational costs and holiday support, including providing gifts for nearly 8,000 children this season.
“It’s so great to see the players give back in this way,” said Fitzgerald. “The connection between fans and players, combined with the opportunity to give to the Salvation Army, makes this a huge win for everyone involved.”
For fans like Michelle Stevens and her two sons, the event was an unforgettable experience. The family traveled 45 minutes from Two Rivers to meet the players. Michelle discovered the signing event through Facebook and immediately decided to change their plans for the evening.
“I told them we’re skipping basketball practice and going to get some autographs,” Michelle said. A single mother, Michelle shared her pride in seeing her sons, who are football players themselves, meet their NFL heroes.
“When they see these NFL players, some of whom have faced major adversity, it shows my boys that anybody can make it,” she added.
For Morgan and Mason Stevens, meeting professional athletes like A.J. Dillon and Bo Melton was a dream come true. “It’s awesome,” said Morgan. “I actually met an NFL player in person. That means a lot to me.”
Mason was equally excited. “I watch all these players on YouTube—Bo Melton, A.J. Dillon—and now I have their autographs. It’s like $100 million, and I got it for free,” he said.
For the Packers players, the event was an opportunity to connect with fans and give back to the community that supports them so passionately.
A.J. Dillon, a veteran participant in the Salvation Army autograph events, emphasized the importance of contributing to the community. “It’s really cool to see the people you impact,” said Dillon. “To see fans who get excited for you on game days and to know you can put a smile on their face during the holidays by doing something as simple as signing autographs for an hour—it’s awesome.”
This event is part of the Packers’ ongoing support of the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign, which provides critical assistance to those in need. In addition to the players who participated on Monday, other Packers, including Kenny Clark, Kingsley Enagbare, and Rasheed Walker, have also joined the effort during the holiday season.
Fans will have more opportunities to meet Packers players and get autographs on Dec. 9 and Dec. 16, with all proceeds continuing to support the Salvation Army.
For families like the Stevens, the event was about more than just autographs—it was about creating lifelong memories. Michelle Stevens said her sons’ first time meeting NFL players in person was an experience they’ll never forget.
“These moments inspire them,” Michelle said. “It shows them that anything is possible.”
For the Packers players, knowing their efforts bring joy to fans while supporting a meaningful cause made the experience equally rewarding.
“It’s about more than football,” Dillon said. “It’s about community.”
All proceeds from the event will support the Salvation Army’s mission to provide food, shelter, and holiday cheer to families, seniors, and unhoused individuals in the Green Bay area. The Packers' involvement highlights how sports can unite a community to make a difference, especially during the holiday season.
With more signing events on the horizon, the Packers and their fans continue to prove that a little generosity can go a long way in creating joy and hope for those who need it most.
