Showing up for those who show up for us, The Kittle Fund strengthens communities by supporting veterans and military families, children facing illness, dogs that heal, and childhood literacy.

OUR MISSION

GEORGE AND CLAIRE KITTLE

OUR FOUNDERS

George and Claire met as student-athletes at the University of Iowa, where George played football and Claire played basketball. George has played tight end for the San Francisco 49ers since 2017 and is a multiple-time Pro Bowl and All-Pro selection. Claire founded The Hoss Tailgate, short for House of Sports and Sisters, which brings women together around the game and gives back to causes close to her heart.

Long before the Fund had a name, they were giving their time, their platform and their support to the people and causes they care about. George's respect for the military comes from his Uncle Pat, who served multiple tours with the National Guard, and his Grandfather Carl. In 2024 he received the NFL's Salute to Service Award, the first 49er to be honored with it.

$250K+

Given to military nonprofits
400+

Game tickets donated to service members and frontline heroes
~60

Veterans' stories shared on the Hidden Pearls Podcast
2024

NFL Salute to Service Award, presented by USAA

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

GEORGE KITTLE

Co-founder & Director
Tight end for the San Francisco 49ers, Iowa Hawkeye, and 2024 NFL Salute to Service Award recipient.
CLAIRE KITTLE

Co-founder & Director
Founder of The Hoss Tailgate, which brings women together around sports and gives back to causes close to her heart.
BRUCE KITTLE

Director
George's father and co-host of the Hidden Pearls Podcast, which has shared dozens of veterans' stories since 2020.
AMY UNDERWOOD

Director
Amy is a San Francisco Bay Area philanthropist and community volunteer. She is known for her longtime leadership of local nonprofit and educational foundations, and brings that experience to the Fund's board.
PETER PEKAR

Director
Peter played football with George at Iowa and works in sales for First Choice Ingredients in Wisconsin. His late wife, Kari (Mueller) Pekar, a former Iowa volleyball player, inspired the Fund's first campaign, Kari's Room.