Portraits of Hope: Buffalo Bills Safety Jordan Poyer to Keynote Villa of Hope’s Signature Event 

Buffalo Bills Safety Jordan Poyer will keynote the April 2026 Portraits of Hope celebration, a signature event benefitting Villa of Hope, a nonprofit organization that provides education, treatment, and services for people struggling with mental health and substance use disorders. Poyer will join attendees at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center on Friday, April 10, for a candid conversation about recovering from addiction and other behavioral health challenges to achieve physical and emotional well-being.

Now in his second stint with the Bills, Poyer is a former team captain and long-time fan favorite who has helped lead the team to six playoff appearances since 2017. “We’re thrilled that Jordan Poyer will keynote our annual Portraits of Hope celebration,” said Villa of Hope President and CEO Carrie Carl. “Jordan will speak from personal experience about recovery from alcoholism, the importance of asking for help, and the power of hope.” The annual Portraits of Hope event raises funds for Villa of Hope’s programs, which serve thousands of youth, adolescents, and adults in the Greater Rochester area annually.                                                                                                                        

Since achieving sobriety in 2020, Poyer has spoken openly about his path to recovery, which he says has transformed his life. “People see athletes as these idols that can’t be touched, or don’t have any issues… their life is perfect,” said Poyer in a 2021 documentary produced by The Players’ Tribune. “But we’ve got issues. And I want people to understand that it’s okay to ask for help about your issues. If I never asked for help, I’d still be drinking.”

New Portraits of Hope format, same great experience  
The format of Villa of Hope’s signature event will be different from previous years. “Villa of Hope has reimagined Portraits of Hope,” explained Carl. “It’s no longer a gala, but an evening dinner celebration that brings our mission to life through heartfelt stories, community connection, and powerful conversation.”

To help achieve this, Poyer’s keynote will be an engaging, coffee-talk–style conversation with a moderator. Poyer will also participate in a “meet and greet” session, including a photo opportunity for VIP guests.

“Guests will enjoy a plated dinner, inspiring stories from Jordan Poyer and the Villa community, and an evening filled with purpose and celebration — all in support of the youth and families who find hope and healing through Villa of Hope’s programs,” concluded Carl. “Together, we’ll make a difference in the lives of individuals and families striving to build brighter futures.”

For the most up-to-date information about the 2026 Portraits of Hope celebration and to purchase tickets, visit www.PortraitsofHopeGala.org.