Bringing NFL Experiences and Smiles to Widows and Their Children

At One Yard at a Time, we believe in the power of community, love, and support. Our mission is to create unforgettable NFL experiences for widows and their children, letting them know they’re not alone in their journey. We’re here to bring smiles, create lasting memories, and show that we’re always on their team.

Where hope meets football and unforgettable memories are made.

At One Yard at a Time, we’re a nonprofit devoted to giving widows and their children the chance to smile, relax, and feel celebrated—because here, you’re not just a guest; you’re part of our team.

Through exciting NFL experiences, exclusive events, and heartfelt connections, we offer more than just a seat at the game—we create joyful, healing moments that honor life, love, and strength. Our mission is simple: to show up with open arms, big energy, and a whole lot of heart.

Our Why

Meet Matthew. At the forefront of our spirited mission is Matthew—a beacon of hope, leadership, and genuine care. His belief in the power of sports to unite and uplift inspires every event we create.

What Your Donation Does

🎟️ NFL Game Tickets – Giving families a chance to experience the excitement and joy of live professional football.

✈️ Travel & Lodging Support – Covering transportation and accommodations so families can attend without financial stress.

🎉 Exclusive Events & Experiences – From meet-and-greets with players to special pregame activities, we create moments to remember.

🤝 Community Gatherings – Bringing widows and their children together to connect, heal, and grow through shared experiences.

💬 Emotional Support & Resources – Offering a compassionate network that helps families feel seen, heard, and supported.

🧒 Empowerment for Kids – Teaching resilience, strength, and joy through positive role models and meaningful connections.

  • "One Yard at a Time is giving a voice to the secondary losses that widows and children face when they lose their partner and parent. The loss is only the first part... then there is the feeling of being alone, and learning how to have fun again in this new normal. As a single mom, I didn't know the first thing about sports, and putting my son's football pads on him was one of the first things I had to learn. One yard at a Time showed us there are others just like us, we are not alone, we can smile and laugh together... we can go through this as a team!”

    - Kim Sharrott | mom of 3 & widow to David Heslin

  • “Losing a spouse is all-encompassing, it affects EVERY aspect of your life. It is all of the moments and memories we shared, along with the reality of the ones that will be missed. It is a pain I would not wish on an enemy. That being said, the abundance of gratitude I feel is an emotion I wish everyone could experience. This feeling is what has helped me thrive for the past 4 years. Grateful for the time I did have with my amazing husband. With One Yard I’m healing while helping others heal too. We are a team.”

    - Kim Sumski | mom of 2 & widow to Jay Sumski

  • “After someone passes away, you grieve and move on with your life. When the person you thought you were going to spend the rest of your life with passes away way too soon, you grieve but then you must learn to live with that grief and somehow move forward. It's healing to be around other people that know exactly what you are going through. One Yard At A Time provides that experience and allows us to laugh and just enjoy the moment together.”

    - Susan Johnson | mom to Edward & widow to Edward A. Johnson

  • “Even after 10 years of being a widow there is a feeling of loneliness that is always present. It hits deeply when guiding my two boys through sports that their father loved, and particularly this year when my youngest decided to play football. One Yard at a Time has created an amazing community of support. The warmth and friendship extended by this group has helped fill that void. The connection with other widows working through their new normal helps the healing process. I am grateful for becoming part of this team.“

    - Linda Doherty | mom of 2 & widow to Rob Doherty