Jazz Community Review

Matt Harpring Dished Out Fast Food

Sprinting quickly into 2005, utahjazz.com would like to take a moment to reflect on the Jazz's involvement in the community through the first half of the season. All are events that would not have been a success without the spirit and support you have shown the franchise.

This year saw the Jazz storm the Wasatch front, distributing over 1,600 tickets to upcoming games while Jazz players bagged groceries, served food and even pumped gas. The Jazz also taught young students from local elementary the importance of reading as part of the NBA's Read To Achieve Program.

The Jazz, along with the help of fans, raised nearly $10,000 that benefitted PanCAN, UNICEF , and Toys For Tots. Money wasn't the only thing they collected; truckloads of toys, along with money, was donated so underpriviledged children could enjoy the thrill of opening presents on Christmas day. And making sure that their holiday was bright and memorable, Jazz players and coaches spent an afternoon making crafts, signing autographs and visiting patients at local children's hospitals. The Jazz also teamed up with the Utah Food Bank and the Salt Lake Mission to serve a traditional Thanksgiving meal to over 2,300 individuals less fortunate than ourselves.

As part of a yearly tradition, Jazz mascot Bear and 200+ volunteers treated over 150 underprivileged children to a shopping spree for "Bear Christmas." Also involved were Firemen & Friends For Kids. Each child was given $100 to spend as they wished at an area Wal-Mart. Some bought toys, some bought gifts for their friends and family, and some bought needed households items.

Memo Signs Autographs For Youngsters

And in what is one of the most memorable moments of the year, Larry H. Miller Charities donated $100,000 for the construction of four community basketball courts to be built along the Wasatch Front. The donation was the largest one-time donation by the organization.

"The Rest of the Jazz" published a cookbook, with proceeds benefitting children's and women's charities in Utah. Andrei Kirilenko visited a Ronald McDonald House. Memebrs of the organization helped out with the Navajo Santa program. All of these and more made up the collective charitable efforts of the Jazz.

With the bar having been set high this past year, the Jazz are shooting to equal or better their community efforts in the upcoming year. Remember while our young team is battling some injuries, we still have heart both on and off the court. We are involved in our communities because we care about them.