By: Brent Greenberg
Philadelphia is thriving in the sports world. From the Eagles Super Bowl victory to the 76ers playoff run, to the reborn NLL Wings, there’s a lot of buzz around Philly sports. But for 24 hours this summer, it was Shootout for Soldiers that took the crown, raising an incredible $106,000 at Episcopal Academy.
“SFS Philly was a huge success! We are honored to host the event at Episcopal and are ecstatic to have raised so much money in support of our nation’s veterans,” said SFS Philadelphia event organizer Chris Bates. “It’s no surprise that the Philadelphia lacrosse community rallied to support such a wonderful cause.”
Participating teams put fundraising on the forefront this year, and a familiar face led the way in 2018 – Olde English Lacrosse. Olde English, who led the event in fundraising in 2017, was atop the fundraising board in 2018 as well, raising $9,831. Ten teams raised over $2,000 while 25 teams raised over $1,000. But beyond the fundraising, it was the thousands of attendees at the event that made the event so special – with live music and cornhole games going on until late into the night.
“My favorite part of the event definitely is watching teams take their young players to each tent of the charities that Shootout for Soldiers supports,” said Bates. “Raising money is certainly important, but the education and awareness of our next generation around the issues that our veterans face it so important.”
Locally, Shootout for Soldiers Philadelphia supports the Delaware County Veterans Memorial and Travis Manion Foundation. The Travis Manion Foundation empowers veterans and families of fallen heroes to develop character in future generations. Through empowerment programs, TMF helps prepare veterans to thrive by helping find their purpose. Transition workshops help veterans identify their strengths and tell their story in life. They also help veterans heal through service, providing veterans and family members of fallen heroes the opportunity to connect, build relationships and work together on service-based trips.
In only the second year of Shootout for Soldiers Philadelphia, it’s clear through the staggering fundraising and local participation why they call it the City of Brotherly Love.
