Former CFL Star Glenn Kulka Walks Ottawa Streets to Aid Homeless

Glenn Kulka, a former player in the Canadian Football League (CFL) and a brief participant in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), is now dedicating his time to helping the homeless in Ottawa. Through his involvement with S.O.S. Steps off the Street, Kulka aims to provide support and resources to individuals struggling with addiction and homelessness.

Kulka, now 61, has faced significant personal challenges throughout his life, including battles with addiction and health issues stemming from his athletic career. He openly discusses the “devil” he carries with him, a metaphor for the ongoing struggles he faces. “It’s a battle for me,” he stated. “I’ve still got the devil in the other pocket.”

Once celebrated for his athletic achievements, including a successful CFL career from 1986 to 1995 where he recorded 48 sacks and 215 tackles, Kulka has also experienced profound personal turmoil. He has struggled with substance abuse for over 35 years, including cocaine, marijuana, and alcohol. Reflecting on his past, he said, “I’m ashamed of some of the things I’ve done, some of them I can’t talk about.”

Transforming Personal Struggles into Community Support

Kulka’s journey into addiction began at a young age. By the time he was 13, he was sneaking alcohol from his parents’ liquor cabinet. This early introduction to substances would lead to years of challenges, including a drug possession charge in 1992 while playing for the Ottawa Rough Riders. Despite these setbacks, Kulka has found a renewed sense of purpose through volunteer work.

He is now actively involved in S.O.S. Steps off the Street, a volunteer organization led by Gerald Jorgensen. The group provides essential resources, clothing, and food to those in need on the streets of Ottawa. Jorgensen, who himself is a former addict, has been pivotal in mobilizing community support. “Because of the suffering I’ve been through, I can gain somebody’s trust in minutes,” he explained.

Kulka’s participation in this initiative stems from his desire to make a difference. “I can’t change the past, but I can help someone today,” he emphasized, highlighting the importance of living in the moment and giving back to those facing similar struggles.

A Life Reclaimed Through Faith

In the year 2000, Kulka faced a severe turning point. Struggling with addiction and contemplating suicide, he found clarity through the love of his dog, Rocco. “I had every intention of taking my life,” he recalled. “But then I thought, ‘I can’t leave Rocco here. He’ll get lost and won’t find his way home.’ So I stuck the barrel between his eyes. I looked at Rocco. I couldn’t shoot him. That’s what saved my life.”

After this pivotal moment, Kulka sought help, entering detox and rehab, and eventually discovering faith. He spoke of the transformative power of his relationship with Jesus Christ, stating, “I had to let Jesus take the wheel. It saved my life.”

This faith has guided him in his efforts to support others. He approaches his volunteer work with compassion, often asking those he meets, “Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired yet?” His genuine concern resonates with many in the community.

As Kulka continues to navigate his own health challenges, including brain damage and chronic fatigue from years of contact sports, he remains committed to helping others. “I’m in a good place,” he said. “I can fill my soul with this kind of work.”

Kulka’s story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the capacity for change. His commitment to aiding those who are homeless and battling addiction reflects a deep understanding of their struggles, shaped by his own life experiences. He has embraced his past, seeing it as a series of lessons that have brought him to where he is today.

In his own words, “You reap what you sow.” As he continues to volunteer with S.O.S. Steps off the Street, Kulka exemplifies the potential for redemption and the impact one individual can have on a community.