Story
The playground next to 1018 Railroad Street had a significant impact on my life. Next to my grandparent's home along the railroad tracks, the trains would run day and night, sparking memories of the bustling Pittsburgh steel industry.
Warm summer nights playing in the 'crick', shooting hoops on Thanksgiving Day with the family, or running around with my brother, and the neighborhood children, are memories I won't soon forget.
My grandparents' example of hard work, dedication and sacrifice were engrained into their daily routine. In honor of their dedication to God, family and community, I want to refurbish the playground and surrounding land along the stream.
Updates include:
1. 30x60 'half court' basketball blacktop with two hoops...
2. 115-foot fence for safety...
3. Refurbish old swing set/see-saw, and install bleachers...
4. Clear brush and trees from the stream area.
Any connections to assist with paving, fencing, a set of bleachers, or playground equipment would be greatly appreciated.
***
In December 2009, my friend, Cathy Cartieri-Mehl and I created the 'Forever Fund' to benefit the UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and began fundraising through our own non-profit, Team Forever. Cathy's family sponsored my English Channel crossing, and from there, with the financial assistance of Trustmont Financial Group, under Pete Dochinez, I accomplished the 'Oceans Seven' in August 2013.
My journey was highlighted in the 2020 Guinness Book of World Records, voted top 'Extreme Weather Adventurer' in a Weather Channel series and an 'Everyday Hero' in Men's Health. The accolades are not important, as the true success of my 16-year endurance athletic journey has been supporting families from across the US, and those who travel from around the world for children's care. It is the passion of my life to give back by any means necessary.
'Project 1018' Events:
1. Moab 240 (Utah) - October 2025 - 240-mile trail run (COMPLETE!)
2. Saints Traverse (California) - December 2025 - 116-mile trail run
3. Pittsburgh Marathon (BQ Attempt) - May 2026 - 26.2-mile run
4. Laurel Highlands Ultra (Pennsylvania) - June 2026 - 70.5-mile trail run
5. Nolan's 14 (Colorado) - July 2026 - 100-mile Sawatch Range run
6. Pymatuning Lake (Pennsylvania) - August 2026 - 14-mile swim
7. Lake Tahoe (California) - August 2026 - 12-mile swim
All funds raised above and beyond the construction project will be donated directly to the Forever Fund. Any donation will receive a tax-receipt, as Team Forever is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
Thank you so much for your desire to impact the lives of children!!
Darren
Learn more about Darren:
https://www.darren-miller.com/about/philanthropy/the-forever-fund/
https://www.openwaterpedia.com/wiki/Darren_Miller
Campaign by 