Release Date: Tuesday, March 8th 2011

Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership Celebrates Mister Rogers’ Legacy

Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership Celebrates Mister Rogers’ Legacy

For Immediate Release
March 8, 2011

Contact:
Brooke Fornalczyk
412-566-4190
pdp@downtownpittsburgh.com


PITTSBURGH, PA — In tribute to Fred Rogers and his deep appreciation of what it means to be a caring neighbor, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (PDP), will host a “Won’t You Help Your Downtown Neighbor?” Sweater Drive on March 14 – 18.

Originally launched as part of the celebration during Pittsburgh’s 250th anniversary, March 20 has officially been named, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” Day. On this day, people in Pittsburgh and across the United States will honor the birthday of Fred Rogers, the creator of the iconic PBS show, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. To commemorate this special day, Family Communications, Inc., (the nonprofit company founded by Fred Rogers) is asking people nationwide to wear their favorite sweater. “We've marked this date to give organizations and institutions the opportunity to create an event that encourages the people in their communities to be caring neighbors. We're also hoping that individuals will connect one-on-one with their neighbors in caring ways," stated Margy Whitmer, Media Producer at Family Communications, Inc.

Beginning at 8 a.m. on March 14, the PDP will collect gently used men’s, women’s and children’s sweaters at their office located at 925 Liberty Avenue, Floor 4. Sweaters will be distributed by The PDP Street Team to social service agencies, such as Operation Safety Net, Downtown Ministerium, Salvation Army, etc. for those less fortunate in Downtown and surrounding areas. The sweaters will also be used through the PDP’s existing homeless outreach efforts.

For more information about “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” Day, visit www.fci.org/neighbor.

About the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership
The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (PDP), celebrating its 15th year, is a dynamic, nonprofit organization comprised of business and community leaders, property owners, civic organizations, foundations and residents who provide energy, vision and advocacy for Downtown Pittsburgh. Working collaboratively with its partners, the PDP strives to create a positive Downtown experience for residents, workers and visitors alike. The PDP’s strategic initiatives include clean and safe services, transportation, housing and economic development and advocacy. For more information, visit www.DowntownPittsburgh.com.
 

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