When Operation Ramp It Up Founder and CEO Greg Schneider came across 100 Eagles fans tailgating, he was miles away from Lincoln Financial Field.
Operation Ramp It Up came together with the Eagles to build a wheelchair ramp for John Ivers, a Vietnam veteran who is currently in a rehabilitation facility after suffering a spinal injury. There was an outpour of family, friends, and supporters, all Birds fans, who were out in full force to assist the build.
Eagles long snapper Cal Adomitis previously worked with Operation Ramp It Up when he was on the Cincinnati Bengals, so when Schneider got a call about doing a project in Philadelphia, he reached out to Adomitis. He immediately said yes and that he will get the Eagles involved.
The experience was a unique one, even for Schneider, who completed his 337th build. He said it was one of the biggest showings he has experienced.
"We've had some big pow-wows, but [I] never expected that," Schneider said. "I'll tell you what, I am now an Eagles fan. I love Cincinnati, born and raised here, but I got a couple [Eagles] jerseys, and I've been wearing them proudly. I was so impressed by the community support and just everybody there. It was just a great couple days."
In addition to Adomitis' involvement, left tackle Jordan Mailata made an appearance, where he took time to sign autographs and sing for the fans in attendance. The Eagles also had three Cheerleaders — Alex Fan, Ashton Dobson, and Taylor Sparks — help with the build.
"Standing alongside my teammates, the Eagles, and Ramp It Up to help build this ramp showed how much can be achieved when we work together for a greater cause," Fan said. "It wasn't just about construction — it was about restoring independence, dignity, and accessibility for someone who has sacrificed so much and showing up for John's family in a time of great need.
"I gladly traded in my cheer poms for gloves to help build a ramp for John Ivers, a United States veteran," Sparks added. "John and all veterans alike, including some of my own family and friends, selflessly sacrifice and serve for the well-being and freedom of others. Helping to build a ramp that will provide accessibility for John was an opportunity to express my gratitude for his service."
With the help of everyone involved, the build was completed in around two hours. While Ivers wasn't able to attend — he returns home the day before Thanksgiving — his presence during the event was felt. Everyone had glowing remarks about the veteran, something that stood out to those that haven't met him in person yet.
"Speaking with his wife and daughter gave us a glimpse into the kind of person John is, a true pillar in his community who has positively impacted so many people around him," Dobson said. "... What stood out most to me was seeing John's family, friends, and neighbors come together to support one of their own. Witnessing the Eagles organization and the NFL's ongoing commitment to honoring and supporting veterans reminded me that football is about so much more than what happens on the field." — Written by Matt Ryan
