WASHINGTON, D.C. - D.C. United's charitable arm, United for D.C., announced Thursday the launch of its inaugural grants program. For 2004, United for D.C. will award up to $25,000 in grants to local organizations that use the sport of soccer to make a difference in area youth's lives. Particular attention will be placed on those programs that impact the lives of local youth who may be economically, physically and/or mentally disadvantaged.
"A charitable organization defines itself by how it allocates its resources," said Catherine Marquette, executive director of United for D.C. and community & fan relations director for D.C. United. "Through the creation of this annual grant program, we hope to cement the identity of United for D.C. as a local leader dedicated to impacting positive change in the Washington, D.C. community."
Through the generosity of United for D.C.'s corporate and individual benefactors and the success of its fundraising events, such as its annual luncheon and golf tournament, up to $25,000 in grants will be awarded to local non-profit and other organizations that utilize soccer to make a positive impact in the lives of disadvantaged youth throughout the Washington, D.C. area. An additional $10,000 may be utilized to support smaller organizations that have similar goals.
A 2004 application and instruction packet for the inaugural grants program are available for download through the United for D.C. website (www.unitedfordc.org) or may be requested by contacting United for D.C. at info@unitedfordc.org or 202-587-5000. The deadline for applying for a 2004 grant is 5 p.m. ET, September 10. United for D.C. will recognize its 2004 grantees at the inaugural United awards reception alongside the winners of D.C. United's individual end-of-season honors. The gala event, scheduled for October 18, will be held at the State Theatre in Falls Church, Va.
For more information on the inaugural grants program or any of United for D.C.'s charitable initiatives or fundraising activities, please contact Catherine Marquette at cmarquette@dcunited.com or 202-587-5443.
United for D.C.
The mission of United for D.C. is to service the Washington, D.C. community through the creation or support of programs, events and organizations that advance the educational and social welfare opportunities (primarily health and recreational) for the area's youth, particularly those who may be economically, physically or mentally disadvantaged.
United for D.C. is a 501(c)3 organization created from the desire of D.C. United of Major League Soccer to further the team's dedication to the Greater Washington, D.C. community. Founded in 2002, United for D.C. is committed to supporting programs and organizations falling within the organization's mission, thus giving back to the community that has supported the team so greatly since its inception in 1996.
2004 United for D.C. grant application instructions
United for D.C. grant application form
