SAN ANTONIO (August 2016) – Gridiron Heroes and Texas Association of Sports Officials have officially launched a partnership initiative called Provide a Ride to support the fundraising efforts toward wheelchair-accessible vehicles for high school athletes impacted by life-changing spinal cord injuries.
TASO has launched the initiative to its membership, including sports officials statewide, to provide the option to donate a portion of their paychecks to Gridiron Heroes to raise funds to purchase the wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
One of the obstacles the families face after injuries happen is transportation. One of the many services that Gridiron Heroes provides is raising money to assist these families to secure a wheelchair accessible van.
TASO Executive Director Michael Fitch has encouraged each member to donate one half of one of their paychecks.
“What an opportunity to make such an enormous difference for the family of an athlete injured while playing the game we all love,” said Fitch.
One hundred percent of the donations will go to the cause. Gridiron Heroes has a process based on need to determine which injured athlete will receive a wheelchair accessible van. Learn more about Provide a Ride and the organizations at www.gridironheroes.org or www.taso.org.
About Gridiron Heroes
Since inception, Gridiron Heroes has donated 14 wheelchair- accessible vans and provided direct support of nearly $700,000 to more than 50 High School Football Players who have sustained a life changing spinal cord injury and their families. Additionally, the Foundation has become an important resource and inspiration to those who have experienced a similar experience. Gridiron Heroes Spinal Cord Injury Foundation is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization. It does not receive any government support or funding. It relies solely on private contributions. In 2011, the Canales’ and Gridiron Heroes were recognized as a Top 10 CNN Hero of the Year for their significant impact. For more information, visit www.gridironheroes.org.
About Texas Association of Sports Officials
TASO is an independent organization, providing support, resources and training for Texas high school sports officials. With more than 150 local chapters serving 14,500+ members throughout the state, we are one of the largest professional organizations for sports officials in the country. TASO works closely with The University Interscholastic League (UIL), the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS), the Texas High School Coaches Association, other Coaches Associations, The Texas High School Athletic Directors Association and many other organizations to ensure fair, challenging and safe athletic competition for Texas high school student athletes. Learn more at www.taso.com
Jermaine Irvin
