In 2022, we will celebrate 70 years of being part of the Pittsburgh community with 35 of those years stewarded by Tunch and Wolf’s dedication to helping us provide help and healing to our cities most vulnerable.
It all began when former Pittsburgh Steeler’s Tackle, Tunch Ilkin walked into Light of Life in 1987. From that day forward he would never be the same. The famous Tunch line is, “Once you walk through the doors of the Mission, you will never be the same.” The first person he told was his good friend (and former Guard for the Steelers) Craig “Wolf” Wolfley, when he invited him to serve dinner at Light of Life on Thanksgiving.
Wolf joined Tunch on Thanksgiving Day. While they were serving dinner, he watched a homeless family walk in and have their holiday meal together. That experience changed his life forever.
Tunch and Wolf have been a fixture at Light of Life and have used their influence to help transform lives at Light of Life. They continue to volunteer on a regular basis, they’ve led Bible Studies with clients, spoken at Chapel services, emceed at the Light of Life Galas, invited men and women in Light of Life’s programming to Steelers Training Camp, started the Tunch & Wolf Walk for the Homeless (now it the 19th year!) and have raised millions of dollars for Light of Life. Plus, Tunch served on Light of Life’s board.
In honor of their 35-year commitment to changing the legacies of women, children and men and in conjunction with the Tunch & Wolf Walk, we’ve announced the “Thanks a Million” campaign. The goal is to raise $1,000,000 towards our two-building relocation effort that enables us to serve our city’s homeless. This effort is 25+ years in the making and as Tunch says, “I remember board meetings in the 90’s focused on trying to relocate the Mission.” We’re excited to finally make that dream a reality.
Their legacy continues to change generations to come. Be part of the “Thanks a Million” Campaign by donating below.
Thank you!
