June 7 fundraiser set for Karli Short foundation

The organization provides help for Penn State students who have experienced gun violence.

McKeesport native and former NFL linebacker Brandon Short will host a fundraiser June 7 at the Omni William Penn Hotel in Pittsburgh to benefit his daughter’s memorial scholarship for Penn State students affected by gun violence.

Brandon Short and his wife Mahreen Short created the Karli Short Better Tomorrow Foundation in 2022 to honor their daughter’s memory. In September 2021, Karli Short, who was five months pregnant, was shot and killed in the 300 block of 25th Street in McKeesport.

“Karli’s legacy won’t be defined by the wrong that was done to her, but by the kindness and compassion that radiated from her,” said Brandon Short in a statement. “We are honoring Karli’s magnificent spirit by lifting up those who are struggling.”

The third annual red carpet gala will begin at 6 p.m. with cocktails, followed by a dinner and speeches. The event’s keynote speaker is Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey, and former NFL defensive tackle Anthony “Spice” Adams will serve as the night’s emcee.

The fundraiser concludes with a dance party that starts at 9 p.m. Sports memorabilia and tickets will be auctioned off at the event and online.

“From the field to the dance floor, this event will welcome football legends for an incredible night of fun, food and fundraising,” Brandon Short said. “It will be a night sports fans won’t forget.”

Here are some of the auction items available for bid online:

• Two tickets and pre-game sideline passes for the Baltimore Ravens vs. Steelers game Nov. 17 at Acrisure Stadium.

• A weekend getaway package that includes two tickets for the Penn State at West Virginia football game Aug. 31 and a two-night stay at the Scholar Hotel in Morgantown, W.Va.

• A certificate to redeem four club seats for a Pirates game at PNC Park.

• A signed Jack Ham Steelers jersey.

• A signed Pat Freiermuth Steelers jersey.

• A Penn State football helmet signed by head coach James Franklin.

Since it was founded, Brandon Short’s charity has awarded five scholarships to Penn State Greater Allegheny students affected by gun violence. The expected proceeds from this year’s fundraiser will help expand the program to assist students at Penn State’s University Park campus as well.

Nearly 43,000 people died from gun related injuries in the United States in 2023, according to a report from The National Institute for Health Care Management.

To purchase a ticket to the Karli Short scholarship fund gala or bid on an auction item, go to https://e. givesmart.com/events/CgC.