BERKELEY, CALIF., Dec. 3, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- One of the greatest American soccer players of all-time, LA Galaxy star forward Landon Donovan is helping to give children in challenging circumstances the opportunity to play using the One World Futbol, the world's first, nearly indestructible ball that never needs a pump and never goes flat—even when punctured multiple times.
As part of its #GivingTuesday efforts, One World Futbol Project today announced a relationship with Donovan and the LA Galaxy Foundation to raise balls for the Foundation's partner organizations working with youth living in disadvantaged communities, both locally and internationally. Donovan is helping to kick off One World Futbol Project's "Play it Forward" holiday giving campaign as the company's newest Ambassador. In this role, Donovan will help raise awareness of the critical importance that sport and play serve for the development of youth.
"Join me, the LA Galaxy Foundation and One World Futbol Project to help give kids at home and around the globe the opportunity reach their potential through the power of play," said Donovan.
Get in the Game and Help Youth in Need
Soccer fans around the globe can support the campaign and give the gift of play through the "Play It Forward" Campaign. There are several ways to participate:
- Give Balls: Purchase a One World Futbol for $25 that will go to the Galaxy Foundation for use with the organizations it serves. The Foundation works with hundreds of organizations in and around the globe.
- Buy One Give One: Buy yourself or someone on your holiday list a One World Futbol for $39.50 (plus shipping). For each ball purchased, One World Futbol Project will donate a second one on your behalf to the LA Galaxy Foundation.
- Donate Funds: Supporters can also contribute funds towards the purchase of a One World Futbol (or many!), through the online donation option.
- Purchase Exclusive Gifts: For soccer fans who looking for exclusive gifts, check out the starting line up of auction packages available only through the campaign. Fans can bid now on items including: VIP field-side seats to an LA Galaxy game at StubHub Center; the opportunity to meet Landon Donovan after an LA Galaxy game (2014 – date TBD); autographed Landon Donovan LA Galaxy jersey and One World Futbol signed by Landon Donovan. Visit the auction to view all of the packages.
All balls, funds and proceeds raised will benefit the LA Galaxy Foundation in support of their ongoing work in the community. This year the Foundation has helped facilitate soccer clinics for over 2,000 underprivileged youth, donated more than 800 soccer balls locally and internationally, and donated $500,000 in monetary and in-kind donations. Your generous support will help continue to fund these initiatives for years to come.
Help Score More: Donovan and LA Galaxy Foundation Goal Challenge
Beginning #GivingTuesday, December 3, Donovan and the LA Galaxy Foundation are also issuing a personal challenge to help generate additional balls for youth served by the Foundation. For the first 100 One World Futbols purchased through the campaign ("Buy One Give One" and "Give Balls" options), Donovan and LA Galaxy Foundation will each match with an additional ball for the Foundation (a match of up to 200 additional One World Futbols). Follow us on Facebook, on Twitter, and on Instagram for campaign updates, exclusives and special promotions.
About the LA Galaxy Foundation
The Los Angeles Galaxy Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, is dedicated to assisting the community, in which we live, work, and play. The LA Galaxy Foundation continually strives to aid organizations that meet its mission of supporting and creating education, health, and soccer-related activities and programs for youth in the greater Los Angeles area, with a specific focus on helping underserved and at-risk children improve their lifestyle through the great game of soccer. Follow the LA Galaxy on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on all Foundation initiatives.
About the One World Futbol Project
One World Futbol Project makes, sells and distributes the One World Futbol, a nearly indestructible ball that never needs a pump and never goes flat—even when punctured. The company's mission is to make a meaningful impact by bringing the joy of soccer and play to youth around the world through the One World Futbol. Working with corporate sponsors, partners, organizations and consumers worldwide, One World Futbol Project distributes One World Futbols to disadvantaged communities, where play can be used to teach life skills and foster social change.
Headquartered in Berkeley, California, One World Futbol Project has reached more than 160 countries through hundreds of organizations bringing the healing power of play to an estimated 18 million youth worldwide. For more information about One World Futbol Project, visit www.oneworldfutbol.com
A photo accompanying this release is available at: http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=22519
