Indianapolis Non-Profit Partners With NFL Athletes to Raise Graduation Rates in At-Risk Areas
INDIANAPOLIS, May 31, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Shoe Game Corporation, an Indianapolis-based non-profit organization, is teaming up with NFL players around the country to give shoes to deserving student-athletes. Starting with the Indianapolis Public School district, the 501c3 organization is focusing their efforts to combat low graduation rates by providing incentives to student-athletes among inner-city schools. Student-athletes in the IPS district that have earned over a 3.0 grade point average will be eligible for free shoes and/or cleats to participate in the 2011 football season.
The Shoe Game is working in conjunction with NFL athletes across the country in this unique program that encourages students to excel in the classroom as well as on the football field. IPS schools have been targeted for the program launch due to the percentage of low-income families and low graduation rates. The first donation cycle will involve student-athletes in the graduating years of 2012, 2013, and 2014, that also participate in their high school's football program. Out of the ten IPS high schools, seven will be fielding football teams in the fall of 2011.
Athletes from a variety of NFL teams are participating in the donation process, and will be in attendance for an open-house that will be held June 10th 2011 in downtown Indianapolis. This event is an opportunity for members of the media, IPS coaches, athletic directors, and potential donation recipients to learn more about The Shoe Game's efforts. Some of the players participating in the program that will be in attendance are Jonathan Goff of the New York Giants, Ryan Baker of the Miami Dolphins, and Curtis Painter of the Indianapolis Colts.
The Shoe Game Corporation was founded in 2009 in an effort to help increase low graduation rates in inner-city school districts. For more information about The Shoe Game and the 2011 open-house, visit www.TheShoeGame.org or email [email protected].
SOURCE The Shoe Game Corporation
Share this article