The American Red Cross Central and Southern Illinois Region has partnered with the Harlem Globetrotters for the team’s Great Assist initiative.
Known as the “Ambassadors of Goodwill”, the Harlem Globetrotters’ Great Assist was launched in 2015. The initiative’s purpose is to spread smiles over the decade through the use of sportsmanship and service. The Globetrotters will join the Red Cross, as well as local first responders to install smoke alarms to help Americans in the fight to stay safe during house fires. Tho Globetrotters will also feature the Red Cross at over 300 games throughout their basketball season, including their game on January 1st, 2017 at the Prairie Capital Convention Center in Springfield. They will also feature a Red Cross PSA and an in-game player announcement.
American Red Cross Central and Southern Illinois Region CEO, Lyn Hruska stated, “We are thrilled to have this incredible support from the Harlem Globetrotters. The fun and interactive way the team engages with the community will help build greater awareness around our mission and the critical need to help people at risk for and impacted by disasters every day”.
President of the Harlem Globetrotters, Howard Smith added, “This partnership brings two great American organizations together in order to achieve a common goal, to help people in need and to put smiles on people’s faces. We look forward to helping the Red Cross achieve their goals by incorporating their messaging into everything we do on and off the court”.
Last year, the Red Cross Central and Southern Illinois Region helped more than 1,300 families after a disaster, most often home fires.