Jared Wayne, a standout wide receiver from the University of Pittsburgh and current member of the Houston Texans, has selected Orange Arrow Players Association for the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats initiative. This program allows NFL players to showcase causes that hold personal significance by wearing custom-designed cleats to raise awareness for their chosen organizations.  

For Jared, the decision was a heartfelt one. His connection to Orange Arrow began during the pandemic, when his then Pitt teammate Rafael Araujo-Lopes introduced him to the organization. Despite the challenges of a virtual setting, Jared volunteered to mentor young student-athletes, helping them develop critical success skills beyond sports.  

Years later, Jared further deepened his relationship with Orange Arrow by serving as a program intern the summer before his senior season at Pitt, fulfilling a degree requirement and solidifying his bond with the organization. “Orange Arrow taught me that being a mentor and role model is about so much more than just football,” Jared shared. “It’s about showing young people how to succeed in life, no matter where their paths lead. That summer helped me realize the lasting impact we can have when we give back.”  

Throughout his senior season at Pitt, Jared wore an Orange Arrow wristband during every game as a reminder of the young student-athletes he mentored and the values he learned through the organization. “It motivated me to play for more than just myself. It was about being a model for those looking up to me,” he reflected.  

In addition to raising awareness, Jared’s custom-designed cleats will be auctioned off following the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats campaign, with proceeds supporting Orange Arrow’s Training Table tour. This nine-city initiative which includes Pittsburgh, provides an enrichment experience for young student-athletes at local fine dining establishments, focusing on etiquette and healthy decision-making.  

Through interactive discussions led by collegiate student-athletes and influential community leaders, participants explore vital topics such as social and life skills, building cross-cultural relationships, mental health, current events, and what it means to be more than just an athlete. Training Table equips student-athletes with the tools to excel both on and off the field, reinforcing Orange Arrow’s mission of fostering success beyond sports.  

“Jared’s commitment to Orange Arrow extends far beyond the field,” said Shawn Robinson, founder of Orange Arrow and former Pitt football athlete. “His advocacy for our mission and willingness to support initiatives like the Training Table demonstrates his belief in the power of mentorship and enrichment to change lives. We’re honored to have him represent us in this meaningful way.”  

This December, Jared Wayne proudly wore cleats adorned with Orange Arrow’s branding, bringing national attention to the organization’s transformative work.