Buzz gave a supportive hug to athletes who participated in the event. (Photos courtesy Miller Sports & Entertainment)
Organizers of the first Utah Youth Sports Giving Day had a plan in mind when it was announced earlier this summer: work with local businesses and ask for public donations to raise money for support of youth sports programs. Their goal was ambitious — raise $3 million in total support over a two-week period.
It took nine minutes.
The Sept. 12 event at The Ballpark at America First Square saw public donations coupled with $1.5 million in matching funds from three organizations raise a total of $3.3 million, with still days to go before the campaign draws to a close on Sept. 26.
Members of the Salt Lake Bees welcomed youth athletes of all abilities to the Utah Youth Sports Giving Day prior to the Bees’ game on Sept. 12, helping raise more than $3.3 million for athletic programs.
“We had 150 nonprofits sign up, and the public donations online once we began were phenomenal,” said Jenny Teemsma, head of communications with Miller Sports & Entertainment. “The goal is to raise essential funds to help more kids access quality sports experiences. It will help many families with the cost of youth sport participation.”
The inaugural campaign is led by Miller Sports & Entertainment, the Larry H. & Gail Miller Family Foundation and the Daniels Fund. The Organizing Committee for the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games has also joined the effort.
“It was a great beginning, but the public can still help out with donations through 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 26,” Teemsma said. Donations can be made online at utahyouthsportsgivingday.com.
