“I do it for the smiles on the kids' faces”: How Travis Kelce helped teens turn a 1969 Chevelle into an…

Travis Kelce helped Kansas City teenagers turn a rusty 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS into an all-electric muscle car. Around 80 students worked on the three-year project, which later became a fundraiser for Operation Breakthrough.

The raffle did not sell enough tickets to give away the car, but the organisation still raised money for its teen workforce development programme. The outcome gave Kelce's community work another dimension, with students gaining practical experience while helping fund future opportunities for other teenagers.

How Travis Kelce's electric Chevelle project raised money for Kansas City teens Students at Operation Breakthrough and MINDDRIVE began working on the Chevelle in late 2021. They replaced its traditional engine with an electric powertrain and updated the vehicle while preserving its classic appearance.

According to KSHB's, 80 students from more than 14 schools worked on the car between 2021 and 2024. The vehicle used a large rear drive unit from a 2016 Tesla Model S and an 87-k Wh battery pack.

Its estimated range reached 250 miles, with 450 horsepower. Kelce and his Eighty-Seven & Running Foundation helped get the project moving through the 2024 Kelce Car Jam.

On Dec. 8, 2024, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end drove the finished Chevelle to Arrowhead Stadium before the team's game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Speaking about the car on his podcast, Kelce said, "That thing is fun.

This thing was one of a kind. When you get in there, you can feel how unique it is." He also praised the students, adding, "The kids did an unbelievable job."The project then took on a fundraising role.

Operation Breakthrough offered $100 raffle tickets, hoping to sell 2,500 and give away the car. However, the organisation fell short of that target.

Its official raffle announcement later named Tony Fatall as the winner of a 50/50 drawing. Fatall bought one ticket in December 2024 and received more than $30,000 after tax.

The organisation's share of ticket sales went towards its teen workforce development programme. Travis Kelce's community commitment gives teenagers skills beyond football The fundraiser fits into Kelce's wider relationship with Operation Breakthrough, which provides educational opportunities and support for children and families in Kansas City.

On the New Heights Kelce once explained why he continued supporting the organisation."I don't do it for the awards, I don't do it for the acknowledgment. I do it for the smiles on the kids' faces at the Ignition Lab and at Operation Breakthrough," he said.

He also spoke of the city's community spirit, saying, "I love getting out here in the Kansas City community, man. They show up for each other so much, and they do it with so much pride."The Chevelle project gave students experience with automotive technology, teamwork and problem-solving.

Its fundraising effort also helped the organisation continue building skills and connections for teenagers preparing for life after school. In Kelce’s case, the finished car offered a chance to showcase their work in front of thousands of football fans.

For the students, the project provided something more practical: experience they could take into future education and careers. Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.

Get the latest Sports News and Live updates.

Key quotes

• “That thing is fun. This thing was one of a kind. When you get in there, you can feel how unique it is.”

• “The kids did an unbelievable job.”

• “I don't do it for the awards, I don't do it for the acknowledgment. I do it for the smiles on the kids' faces at the Ignition Lab and at Operation Breakthrough,”

• “I love getting out here in the Kansas City community, man. I really do. They show up for each other so much, and they do it with so much pride.”