Cary, NC -- On Saturday, October 5, the NC Courage soccer team hosted a special fundraiser during their match against the San Diego Wave, partnering with United Way of North Carolina (UWNC) to raise much-needed funds for those affected by Hurricane Helene. The fundraiser, organized in collaboration with United Way of the Greater Triangle (UWGT), was aimed at supporting UWNC's UW Helps NC Fund, which provides direct relief to communities impacted by the storm.
Fans were encouraged to donate throughout the game via the following options:
- A QR code prominently displayed around the stadium.
- Announcements to text UW Helps NC to 91999.
- Announcements to visit unitedwaync.org to submit a donation.
These channels made it easy for attendees to contribute. Additionally, NC Courage pledged a portion of ticket, merchandise, and concession sales to the UW Helps NC Fund.
Brittany Pruitt Fletcher (President and CEO of UWNC)
During the match, Brittany Pruitt Fletcher, President and CEO of UWNC, and Eric Gukian, President and CEO of UWGT, spoke about their organizations' ongoing efforts to assist those in need following the hurricane. Both leaders highlighted the critical importance of community support in times of crisis and expressed gratitude for the collaboration between NC Courage and United Way.
From left to right: Eric Gukian (President and CEO of UWGT), Austin Da Luz (Manager, Corporate Partnerships at NC Courage), and Brittany Pruitt Fletcher (President and CEO of UWNC).
By the end of the evening, an impressive $18,000 had been raised, but the fundraising didn't stop there. NC Courage has continued to collect donations at subsequent home games, further supporting relief efforts. That total number will be announced soon.
UWNC expressed heartfelt thanks to NC Courage and their Corporate Partnership team for making the event a reality. They also extended their appreciation to UWGT for their role in coordinating the successful fundraiser.
As the recovery from Hurricane Helene continues, events like this showcase the power of sports and community organizations coming together for a greater cause.
For more information and to watch the interviews with Brittany Pruitt Fletcher and Eric Gukian, click here and here.
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About United Way of North Carolina and NC 211
We bridge people, local United Ways, and resources so individuals, families and communities thrive in North Carolina. United Way of North Carolina also manages NC 211, this multilingual and confidential service provides health and human services information and referrals through a free statewide phone number (2-1-1 or 1-888-892-1162) and website (www.nc211.org). Real-time caller data is available at 211counts.org. NC 211, in combination with local United Way programs and partners, works collaboratively to ensure our residents’ greatest needs are met, year-round, but especially during a disaster.