WHO WE ARE

Pro Players Association (PPA) is comprised of current and former professional athletes, media and entertainment personalities, and associate members who work voluntarily on behalf of the community. 

        Pro Players Association’s goal is to generate funding for worthwhile programs and charities which will benefit the community locally, nationally, and globally.   

Their mission, simply stated, "Dedication to Serving and Giving Back to the Community", is one proven many times since their incorporation in 2002.


Pro Players Association is a nonprofit 501c3 charity.

 

PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION IS PROUD TO DISPLAY THESE SEALS AWARDED BY GUIDESTAR and GREAT NONPROFITS FOR TRANSPARENCY AS A NONPROFIT

PLEASE DONATE TODAY TO THE PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION

 
Link here: https://www.coloradogives.org/organization/PPA
 
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
(click on the image below to link to Colorado Gives site)

 We just earned our Silver Seal of Transparency from @CandidDotOrg! Keep up with our accomplishments on our #NonprofitProfile  DONATIONS ACCEPTED HERE
          

                

CLICK ON THE GREATNONPROFITS LOGO TO VIEW OUR 5-STAR REVIEWS AND FIND A LINK WHERE YOU CAN PLACE A DONATION TO THE PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION.

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 PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION HAS FILED OUR IRS 990N IN COMPLIANCE FOR TAX YEAR 2025 0N 02/06/2026.
                                                                        

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

COVERING COLORADO
Conversations and coffee: Visiting Treehouse Cafe in Colorado Springs
 
We made it on the TV News this morning. Tony Keith, KOAA5 senior reporter, told me the segment was the top rated and most viewed piece on the station’s online site today!
 
Tony also informed me there was another mention of me on the early morning weather report with Meteorologist Alan Rose. Unfortunately, it was live and not repeated or online so I don’t have a recording.
 
I’m honored to learn that on Friday, a more informative report about Pro Players Association is to be produced for the air on this coming Friday.
 
Thanks Tony and Alan, and Tree House Cafe COS.
 
KOAA News 5 Conversations and coffee: Visiting Treehouse Cafe in Colorado Springs https://share.google/c1mbIM28ICgYHj04g

 

 

 

PPA CEO Gary R. Adler interviewed for Daymond John’s “Legacy Makers”, to be featured in "Next Level CEO" casting call on October 30th. Comments from the interviewer were, “Had a great time getting to know you and your biz today. I definitely feel you have a compelling story to share with our audience given your personality, background and growth goals”. “Once production gives us the green light you’ll move right into pre-production”.

GOT THE GREEN LIGHT TO TV PRODUCTION!
NEXT LEVEL CEO “INSIDE SUCCESS”
Here’s what the production crew composed from my interview:
Gary Adler’s Story Summary:
Gary Adler’s path from a nine-year-old hosting a backyard carnival for cancer research to the founder and CEO of the Pro Players Association is a story of lifelong service, ingenuity, and community leadership. Raised with an instinct to give back, Gary organized his first fundraiser in memory of a friend’s father and raised $35,000—an early glimpse of his drive to mobilize people for good.
Over the decades, Gary went on to found eleven nonprofits and eventually launched the Pro Players Association in 2002, uniting athletes, media figures, and entertainers to raise funds for charities nationwide. Under his leadership, the organization has generated more than $250 million for causes ranging from ALS research to local community projects. Based in Colorado, Gary has built a network of celebrity and everyday volunteers who produce over forty fundraising events annually—concerts, golf
tournaments, car shows, and community festivals—each turning goodwill into tangible impact.
Before founding the association, Gary spent 22 years as a professional NFL photographer, capturing moments from the field to the world stage. His background in photography and media, combined with his deep network across sports and entertainment, shaped his understanding of visibility, storytelling, and legacy. His current mission: expanding the Pro Players Association nationally, creating new chapters that empower athletes and community members alike to give back with purpose and joy.

PPA TO BE FEATURED ON GLOBAL TV PRODUCTION!

 
SUPPORT NEEDED TO MAKE THIS A REALITY!
 
PPA CEO Gary R. Adler is to be featured in "Next Level CEO" on Daymond John’s “Legacy Makers” TV Production.
Appearing on Daymond John's Next Level CEO offers significant benefits to entrepreneurs, primarily through global exposure, expert mentorship, and high-level networking opportunities. 
 
Key benefits include:
Global Platform and Visibility: Participants gain exposure by sharing their story and strategies on a global platform, which can lead to a significant boost in brand recognition and authority.
Professional Content Assets: Featured entrepreneurs receive a full-length episode about their business, complete with professional direction, filming, and editing. This becomes a powerful, high-quality marketing asset they can use to promote their business indefinitely.
Mentorship from Daymond John: A major advantage is the potential to receive a one-on-one mentoring session with Daymond John himself. This provides invaluable, direct feedback and insights from one of the world's most successful entrepreneurs and empire builders.
Networking with Elite Peers: The series connects participants with other hand-selected, high-level entrepreneurs and industry leaders who share a vision for growth, facilitating lasting relationships and potential collaborations.
Skill Enhancement and Education: The program is a business education series designed to provide tools and insights into essential topics like strategic planning, finance, sales, HR, marketing, and leadership, helping participants to elevate their skills.
Cash Prize (for winners): In associated competitions like "Entrepreneur of Impact," the top visionary receives a significant cash prize (e.g., $25,000) to fuel their business growth.
Media Features: Winners may also be featured in major publications like Forbes magazine, further amplifying their business's reach and credibility. 
In essence, the show provides a unique platform for entrepreneurs to gain expert knowledge, critical connections, and the visibility needed to scale their businesses to a "next level" of success. 
 
We must raise $15,000 in order for Pro Players Association to obtain licensing for the use and ownership of the completed production. 
 
Donations would be gratefully appreciated and can be directed at the donate button button below. Thank you!
 

VOLUNTEERS WANTED FOR FUN & EXCITEMENT!

Are you are searching for a great opportunity to volunteer some of your time? Here's one where you can have fun and generate excitement, while providing community service and participating in an organized charity event.

Pro Players Association (PPA) is a 501c3 nonprofit community service organization comprised of current and former professional athletes, media and entertainment personalities, and associate members who work voluntarily on behalf of the community. Pro Players Association's goal is to raise money for worthwhile programs and charities that will benefit the community.

Their mission, simply stated, " Dedication to Serving and Giving Back to the Community", is one often proven since their incorporation in 2002.

PPA's commitment and dedication of Giving Back to the Community may translate into a hands-on activity by holding a junior football clinic, playing in a charity golf tournament, helping to cook meals to feed the homeless, holding a holiday party for people with disabilities or mentoring to young adults. These events involve much-needed interaction between the community and the Pro Players members.

Visit our "Membership" page for introductory information and a preliminary membership application.

UPCOMING EVENTS

PPA AUCTION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM will be presenting items for both a LIVE and Silent Auction for "BATTLE OF THE BADGES 2".

 

 


Read the story on our “IN THE NEWS” page

COMBAT VETS POKER RUN IN AUG '26

CELEBRITY BARTENDER NIGHT IS IN THE PLANNING PROCESS FOR EARLY 2026!
 
KISSCAM EVENTS IN THE FUTURE.... 
 
COLORADO GOLF EXPO 2026

Expo Hall Hours

Please see Expo hours below.

 

Date Time Event
   
Thursday, March 51:00PM – 6:00PMExhibitor set up
Friday, March 610:00AM – 6:00PMExpo Open
Saturday, March 79:00AM – 5:00PMExpo Open
Sunday, March 810:00AM – 3:00PMExpo Open
Sunday, March 84:00PM – 8:00PMExhibitor Tear Down
Monday, March 98:00AM – 12:00PMExhibitor Tear Down
 
 
 

MOTORMANIA CAR, TRUCK & BIKE SHOWS

2025 MOTORMANIA SHOW

CARS, TRUCKS & BIKES 

was held on

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
10AM - 4PM


PIKES PEAK INDIAN MOTORCYCLE

6650 CORPORATE DRIVE

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO

Successful event for Brain Cancer Research ===========
             

 

MOTORMANIA HALLOWEEN 2025

Echo Peyer Video Production

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

PPA AWARDED MICROSOFT AZURE GRANT

Understanding the Azure Grant

Microsoft’s generous grant aims to make advanced cloud technologies accessible to nonprofits, allowing them to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and solutions. This grant provides eligible nonprofits with $2,000 USD in Azure credits. These credits can be used towards enhancing organisational processes, from data management and analytics to more complex AI-driven solutions like natural language processing or predictive analytics.

How Can Nonprofits Benefit?

Improved Efficiency:
Automate routine tasks and streamline data management to save time and resources.

Enhanced Decision-Making:
Use AI to analyse data for better, evidence-based decisions that align with your mission.

Increased Reach:
Implement AI-driven marketing tools to extend your outreach and engagement with stakeholders.

ITConnexion’s Role

As your technology partner, ITConnexion is here to guide you through every step of the process. From initial consultation and eligibility checks for the Azure grant, to deploying and managing AI solutions, our expert team ensures a smooth transition and effective utilisation of cloud technology tailored to your needs.

Next Steps to Get AI-Ready

Getting started with AI may seem daunting, but with ITConnexion by your side, it’s easier than you think. Here’s how you can get started:

Consultation:
Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your eligibility and the potential uses of Azure AI in your operations.

Strategy Development:
We will help you develop a strategic approach to integrate AI technologies in alignment with your organisational goals.

Implementation and Training:
Our team will manage the implementation of AI tools, ensuring you and your staff are fully trained and comfortable with the new technologies.

The journey towards becoming AI-ready is not just about adopting new technologies but transforming the way your organisation achieves its mission. With the Microsoft Azure grant and ITConnexion’s expertise, your nonprofit can take a significant leap forward.

 

CEO Gary R. Adler distributed over 40 sandwiches to the homeless community in the South Tejon area of Colorado Springs on Christmas Day as part of our annual holiday food distribution program 2025.

 

PPA CEO Gary R. Adler and Advisory Board member Tom Buonocore presented an Appreciation Plaque to Pikes Peak Indian Motorcycle, Colorado Springs for sponsoring our Motormania Halloween 2025. 

Saturday, Oct 25, 2025

AUCTION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

PPA’s Advisory Board member Tom Buonocore presented a check for funds raised by our Auction Assistance Program to Southern Colorado Golf Association for their First Tee program on Friday, November 14.



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A MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD

PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES OUR 24th ANNIVERSARY!
 
Even though the Pro Players Association was only founded in 2002, our CEO has been experienced in fundraising for over 57 years. Yes, he started in 1969 when he organized a carnival for cancer and raised $35,000; and then he founded the American Cancer Society Juniors in 1970. Since, he has founded or co-founded 11 nonprofit charities in the U.S.
 
Our celebrity members combined have hundreds of years’ experience in fundraising efforts.
We have worked with every kind of charity and have catered to all kinds of crowds.
 
We participate in continuing education relative to fundraising and auctioneering to keep us abreast of what is going on in today’s fundraising environment. We keep informed and stay connected to the auction market daily.
 
We have worked events that spread the range of admission ticket price from “FREE” to “$1000 per person”. We are very familiar with the spectrum of clientele.
 
We have undertaken a variety of challenges in the organization and implementation of these events and have achieved great success. Our record and many accolades speak to these successes.
 
We are available to assist in an established event or we can organize an event from scratch.
 
Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns relative to working in conjunction with the Pro Players Association on any of your fundraising efforts.
 
PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE & ADVISORY BOARDS
 
 
To connect with us, visit our CONTACT page for more information.
 
 
 

VISIT OUR AMAZON “WISH LIST”

INTERESTED IN HELPING TO SUPPORT OUR EFFORTS IN OTHER WAYS THAN FINANCIAL?

VISIT OR "WISH LIST" located on AMAZON.COM
Your contribution is tax deductible under the provisions of the I.R.S. Tax Code 501c3.

PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION SPORTS PLUS-- OFFICIAL ONLINE STORE

OUR ONLINE STORES ARE NOW OFFICIALLY OPEN FOR BUSINESS!!

NEW STOCK ADDED WEEKLY!!

WE ADDED PRO-SPORTS JERSEYS, NFL & NBA SUPER PLUSH 40X50 BLANKETS, AUTOGRAPH PLAQUES, GOLF ACCESSORIES, NFL T-SHIRTS, STARBUCKS DRINK CONTAINERS, BOYD'S BEARS COLLECTIBLES, and Much More!

YOUR PURCHASE SUPPORTS WORTHWHILE PROGRAMS AND CHARITIES WHICH BENEFIT THE COMMUNITY

CLICK ON THE LOGO BELOW TO ACCESS OUR ONLINE STORE

https://proplayersassociationsportsplus.ecrater.com

PPA Sports Plus Customer Service: proplayerscustsv@aol.com

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Our sales on eBay are on a temporary hold at: proplayersassociation

PLEASE REFER TO THE eCRATER STORE ABOVE FOR ALL MERCHANDISE SALES

 https://proplayersassociationsportsplus.ecrater.com

 


 

 

PAYPAL GIVING

PayPal Giving Fund helps people support their favorite charities online. We receive donations through PayPal, eBay, and other technology platforms and make grants to our donors' recommended charities. PayPal Giving Fund is an IRS-registered 501(c)(3) public charity (Federal Tax ID: 45-0931286). 

Pro Players Association Giving Fund Link:

 paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1728734 


AUCTION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR CHARITY AUCTIONS NOW AVAILABLE FROM PPA

NEED AUCTION ITEMS THAT TURN INTO CASH?

Get your hands on items for your fundraiser without the hassle of begging and pleading for donations from merchants.

Pro Players Association now offers non-profits the opportunity to access valuable collectibles, fine art, and special opportunities. Take a look through our collection in our slide presentation found on our Auction Assistance Program page.

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NEW ITEMS ADDED DAILY! CHECK THEM OUT!!!

WE ARE PROUD MEMBERS OF THE COLORADO AUCTIONEERS ASSOCIATION

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NEW ARRIVALS

1200;900;376ddecff9349f71c4ba30abea8da2168d589e3e 1200;900;85fc2c988b0357f80c5a86bb7389c733ade9abf1 1200;900;ebb8082de2134bacbcf3ee4ca53599d192cc9ba3 1200;900;ad5f3cc849163941be9aa4071ca9e54dfc4f8ee9 1200;900;eaaaa801978deec73e4295545e86e3535327f41d 1200;900;84ddddbbfcf0e64b8965ca36cc37b5f05fc193ea 1200;900;cd73794622a29dc6cda3f4e656be404dc6e4d1a8 1200;900;4dae0920c48422f847bcc1db68417c942a077bd0 1200;900;b6830d9eebd9c8de8d58e0022106bbb1d0dbce4f 1200;900;32d59a14d24b80aee4f1816e382345a2d6ae85e1 1200;900;617bdb25247d7a9a73f7df70bf0dfec12f188ab5 1200;900;23e36662536a97d4159318b562b920b9e3af21dd 1200;900;cd814b81dcbee51d50a77f9185e93547a41d66c7 1200;900;f7dbbc6b9fa9540ebfd07d885288bd5dfd172fab 1200;900;406da03ef44d1ffaf10eaa7e1ce19ad21c3912a7 1200;900;5fa963f13ff6cbdec75b53cb68547e28fe7670e0 1200;900;8ac69d4e9ec36c8b6b628370db8ad1d27dc1c17a 1200;900;cf6ffb8ed75ee009ecb289dd09b18a56ccebc0cb 1200;900;276e7d93a28a9b53a12d03b6634d2473487c35cf 1200;900;17f0df5fee52cc68cd7ffb5696c1ff6349ea14f9

UPCOMING AUCTIONS

PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION AUCTIONS

2025

SILENT & LIVE AUCTIONS

 

ONLINE ONLY AUCTIONS

 

 

CELEBRITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM & SPEAKERS BUREAU

                  

 

                       

All Photos by ©Blind Images 

Our PPA members are available to promote, appear and/or participate in your special event. Members of PPA come from a wide variety of professional sports, media and entertainment professions.

  • Personal appearances
  • Speaking engagements
  • Autograph signings
  • Grand Openings
  • Golf outings
  • Trade shows
  • Corporate hospitality/Super Bowl events
  • Product endorsements/sponsorship
  • Other promotional needs
  • Pro Players Association Radio Network's "Sports in Perspective" broadcast is available to be presented "LIVE" or delayed remote at your location

For more information visit our "Celebrities" page or contact the PPA office : 303-961-5032; proplayersassociation@gmail.com

 

 

CURRENT MEMBER NEWS

CONDOLENCES


CYMBAL ADVISOR TINY BARGE PASSED AWAY

Just received sad news that Tiny Barge, distinguished, composer, producer, performer, and all-around great friend passed away December 28, 2025.
 
Tiny and I worked together on many musical events. I booked his band, Tiny Barge and the Big Chill many times over the years. 
 
He was a member of Pro Players Association and an advisor on our CYMBAL (Colorado Youth in Music Benefits Academic Learning) community project.
 
 
There is going to be a memorial for Tiny on Sunday, Jan. 18th from 2p-5p at Thunder & Buttons II - 2415 W. Colorado Ave., Colorado Springs.
 
Photos and Video©️Blind Images
See the full story on our CYMBAL page.
 
 

 

The Pro Players Association extends our sincere condolences to the family of PPA Charter Board Member Norm Teltow upon his passing on January 3, 2026.

Norm was a charter member of our organization, the Pro Players Association. He was one of our original board members, and was very active with us both directly, and through the Optimists. His time, talents and generosity were always greatly appreciated by all.

On behalf of the Pro Players Association, I’d like to express our sincere and heartfelt condolences to the Teltow family. May his memory be for a blessing and may he rest in peace.

RIP Norm. Your friendship will be greatly missed.

https://www.fairmountfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Norman-Norm-D-Teltow?obId=46911209

 

"MAY THEIR MEMORY BE FOR A BLESSING AND MAY THEY REST IN PEACE"

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Denver Search & Rescue / Statewide Emergency Management Response

We are currently in search of new membership. If you’re interested and have a background in firefighting, EMS or search & rescue, please contact us for more information. DSAR/SEMR is a volunteer nonprofit organization.

proplayersassociation@gmail.com

 

CLICK ON "VIEW MY CALENDAR" FOR UPCOMING PPA EVENTS

Free Calendar from Bravenet.com Free Calendar from Bravenet.com

Free Calendar from Bravenet.com Free Calendar from Bravenet.com 

 

SPONSORS

SUPPORT THE SPONSORS WHO SUPPORT US!

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D&G AUTO REPAIR SERVICE, PEYTON, CO

CLICK ON THE HERTZ LOGO FOR INCREDIBLE SAVINGS THROUGH OUR PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM

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Wizard Transmissions

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2271 West Evans Avenue 
Denver, CO 80223 
303-733-8494

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CLICK HERE TO SUPPORT ALL OUR FINE SPONSORS
 

 

SPONSORS IN THE NEWS

 


Check out all the services our sponsor Academy Art & Frame Company provides...

The item shown in the presentation belongs to the Pro Players Association.


 


 

We can custom wrap anything. Call or text us with your next project!
720- 266-1613 
Big Dog Wraps and Graphics!!

SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES

WELCOME TO ProPlayersAssociationDental.com

Discount dental plans provide individuals and families with an affordable and easy-to-use alternative to costly dental insurance. Members can save 10% to 60% on most dental procedures. Also, select plans even offer significant savings on dental specialty services like oral surgery, dentures, braces, and even root canals.

Save an extra 15% on any plan with coupon code PRO15. If interested, simply go to Step 1 and enter your zip code, or call toll free at 1-888-632-5353 and a representative will gladly help you join.

Visit our plan web site for more information and registration: www.proplayersassociationdental.com

 

CLICK ON THE HERTZ LOGO FOR INCREDIBLE SAVINGS THROUGH OUR PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM


What’s Up!

PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION'S DENVER BRONCOS Bill Harris represented at the Lone Tree Police Department Open House 2023 held Saturday, July 22 at the Lone Tree Arts Center. PPA's Gary R. Adler and John Sandy Santucci manned the booth which was representative of a presentation on the National Weather Service's Summer Safety Campaign. Pro Players Association was designated as a Weather Ready Nation Ambassador in 2019 and are members of NWS SKYWARN Severe Storm Spotting Team. Thanks to PPA's Justin Byrd, owner of Big Dog Wraps, who printed the awesome severe weather safety tips posters for display at the event. Bill Harris signed autographs and took selfies with the many fans who were visiting our booth. Thank you to both Sgt Scott Cavenah and Officer Scott Howard of the Lone Tree Police Department for recognizing us and inviting us to this great community awareness event.

  

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PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION'S DENVER BRONCOS CHRIS BREWER represented at the Calhan Summer Fest on behalf of the Eastern Plains Community Pantry where he greeted football fans, took selfies and signed autographs to help generate donations for the Pantry Charity Booth, July 14, 2023.

               All Photos c Blind Images 2023​

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Working on Golf Tournament prospects for 2023. Committee members needed. If you’re interested to volunteer for the committee organizing the golf tournament please contact Gary at 303-961-5032. Thank you.

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PRO PLAYERS ASSOCIATION SUPPORTS OUR TROOPS

Honor Guard representing Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force display their colors at PPA's Celebrity Bartender Night for Military Family Relief, June 2008. Blind Images©2008

 

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VISIT OUR MILITARY SUPPORT PAGE FOR DETAILS.

 

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED RENTAL STORE IN DURANGO, CO

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBER UPDATE
303-961-5032