Following the devastating tornado that hit Joplin, Missouri on May 22, Jack Jewsbury and the Portland Timbers partnered with the American Red Cross to assist in fundraising. Jack, a Joplin native, still has close family in that area, some of whom were directly affected by the costliest single tornado in U.S. history. The official death total from the tornado was 160; 990 people were injured. Emergency managers reported damage to 75% of Joplin. In total, nearly 7,000 homes were destroyed and over 850 others were damaged. It has been estimated that it will cost 3 billion dollars to re-build.
Jack and the Timbers rallied fans to donate money for Red Cross disaster relief through a mobile text-in campaign and with a request for in-stadium donations during the club’s May 29, 2011 match.
Utilizing their “Stand Together” community outreach platform, Jack, the Timbers, and their legion of fans helped to raise over $11,000 for the American Red Cross’s disaster relief efforts in Joplin, greatly surpassing the nearly $7,000 they raised for Japan earlier in 2011.
March is Red Cross month, and the Oregon Red Cross will be honoring Jack and the Portland Timbers, along with other local heroes who have displayed courage and compassion, at our upcoming Fred Meyer Breakfast of Champions. This event celebrates the mission of the American Red Cross; the idea that we can all be a part of something bigger than ourselves. It is the Oregon Red Cross’ largest fundraiser of the year; if you would like to attend, contact Tracy Madsen at 503-528-5692.
In Oregon, the Red Cross responds to an emergency once every 16 hours – but the Red Cross does much more than respond to disasters. We train everyday people in lifesaving skills. We assist members of the military and their families. We provide transportation to essential appointments for the elderly and disabled. We provide warming centers in response to particularly cold nights in the winter. We educate the community about emergency preparedness. And we reconnect families separated by war or disaster. This year, the Fred Meyer Breakfast of Champions will highlight the awesome power of natural disasters and the role of the Red Cross in responding to them.
When you arrive at the Fred Meyer Breakfast of Champions on Tuesday, March 6th, you will find yourself physically immersed in these episodes of tornado, earthquake, wildfire and floods, and witness Red Cross efforts to shelter, feed and care for Oregonians displaced by these disasters. Arrive early to give yourself time to explore this multimedia experience. Then enjoy a breakfast and a heartfelt celebration; marvel at the touching stories of local heroes as we honor them for their acts of compassion, bravery, excellence and selflessness.
These individuals are the beacons of hope many see in their most desperate hours. And that’s what this event is all about — celebrating those who would put aside their own needs to come to the aid of others. Join us at the 2012 Fred Meyer Breakfast of Champions. Please contact Tracy Madsen at 503-528-5692 regarding attending this charitable event.