Whether the Cincinnati Bengals make the NFL playoffs or not, many area residents see them as winners for their off-the-field contributions to their community.

Recently, the players went above and beyond the call of duty to support a fundraising event aimed at helping inner-city school children.

Steve Strathmann, vice president of development for Volunteers of America, praised standout receivers Chad Johnson and Peter Warrick, plus more than a dozen of their teammates, who showed up for the Dec. 11 benefit at Jillian's in Covington. The event demonstrated "the true Christmas spirit within Cincinnati," Strathmann said. Here's how he described the Bengals' appearance:

"Although Johnson and Warrick were the only players scheduled to attend for a one-hour session, I personally counted 15 Bengals who stayed nearly two hours.

While many of today's athletes might appear bored with the mundane task of signing autographs, the Bengals were the direct opposite. They had fun with each person and made them feel special by answering every question raised; they even signed items brought in to Jillian's at no cost.

"As a representative of Volunteers of America, the organization benefiting from the I-Wireless and Kiss 107.1 FM concert, my aim was to respect their privacy. Much to my delight, Bengals Public Relations Manager Eric Ball approached me to find out more about VOA's "Kids Connection" programs. Even more to my delight, Peter Warrick overheard this conversation. After I provided detailed information on the school, Peter explained that he might be able to visit the children at the school in the near future.

"The next time someone tells me that pro athletes are spoiled and do not want to have anything to do with a community, I'll tell them, 'Then you don't know our Cincinnati Bengals.' "

Thanks, guys, you were great!