How Indiana QBs Turned a Burger Into a Cause

From the Gridiron to the Grill

What started as a specialty burger near the Indiana University campus has become a powerful act of purpose. Indiana football stars Fernando and Alberto Mendoza have turned a namesake menu item into a meaningful fundraising effort to support multiple sclerosis (MS) research — inspired by their mother’s long battle with the disease.

The Mendoza Bros. Burger, a Cuban-inspired creation sold in Bloomington, blends family heritage, college football, and community impact into one powerful cause.

A Personal Fight Against MS

The brothers’ mother, Elsa Mendoza, has lived with MS for nearly two decades. For Fernando and Alberto, the fundraiser isn’t abstract — it’s deeply personal.

“It’s been amazing that we get to support our mother and raise awareness,” Alberto Mendoza said. “This fight is very close to home.”

Every dollar raised through the burger goes directly toward MS research, helping families facing the same challenges theirs has endured.

Using NIL for Good

Fernando Mendoza, Indiana’s Heisman Trophy–winning quarterback, sees the project as proof that name, image and likeness (NIL) opportunities can be used for something bigger than personal gain.

“NIL doesn’t have to be negative,” Fernando said. “We wanted to do it for a good cause.”

Rather than cashing in individually, the brothers chose to use their platform to make a difference — turning attention from game-day hype into real-world impact.

A Community Effort That Delivers

The burger is sold at BuffaLouie’s, with a companion Mendoza Bros. Cubano breakfast sandwich available at Gables Bagels, both owned by restaurateur Ed Schwartzman. Each purchase donates 20% to MS research, with Schwartzman personally matching contributions.

So far, the initiative has raised more than $150,000 for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society — a testament to the power of community, creativity, and compassion.