Is this PR? #4 The V Foundation for Cancer Research and ESPN (Jimmy V Week)
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was actually created by ESPN and Jim Valvano, basketball coach for North Caroline and ESPN commentator, who died of cancer. The foundation was created to raise money for cancer research and awareness for all types of cancer. This year marked the 3rd Anniversary for Jimmy V Week from December 3 to December 8. During Jimmy V Week there are the Jimmy V Week Women’s and Men’s Basketball Classics. Througout the week there are TV programs on ESPN about Jimmy Valvano’s life and The V Foundation. At the end of the week there is a Women’s Classic and a Men’s Classic. This week is meant to raise awareness and funds by showing the V Foundation, what they do, cancer stories, and other impactful stories plus where you can donate to the V Foundation.
I watched one of the men’s classic games (Butler vs. Georgetown) which was Monday, December 7. Throughout the game and halftime there were special stories of cancer victims and cancer survivors. It was very moving and was hosted by Dick Vitale. He shared stories of his personal experiences with friends who’d lost people to cancer and other stories of people who’d been involved with the V Foundation. It was moving and made me appreciate ESPN more. That’s why this was a great move by ESPN in terms of public relations. It showed the viewers that ESPN cares about more than just sports. It shows that they care about what happens to the community which helps to strengthen the relationships ESPN has with its viewers. The fact that ESPN has a Jimmy V Week and holds basketball classics in its name also helps the V Foundation. It helps raise awareness of the group and their message and lets people know they should donate to it.
Post a comment