SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The NBA’s Utah Jazz and Mountain America Credit Union have announced that Head Start is this season's second recipient of "Pass It Along," a program featuring fan nomination opportunities that rewards five local charitable organizations with $5,000 each.
Head Start is a free preschool program for low-income children that focuses on kindergarten readiness. Children receive medical screenings and care, nutrition, and the academic, social, and emotional skills they need to succeed in school. The non-profit was presented with a $5,000 donation prior to a recent game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Vivint Smart Home Arena.
"We are very grateful for the support from the Utah Jazz and Mountain America Credit Union," said Joni Clark, chief development officer for Utah Community Action, the agency that oversees the local Head Start program. "This gift will help us provide children and families with a path to self-sufficiency."
In addition to the $5,000 donation, Head Start received a visit from Mountain America Credit Union President and CEO Sterling Nielsen and tickets to the game.
Fans are encouraged to nominate local charitable groups that they feel go above and beyond in giving back to the community via www.utahjazz.com/passitalong.
One winner will be announced each month through March 2016, for a total of $25,000 being donated to five deserving organizations.
This season's first "Pass It Along" recipient, the Paiute Tribe of Utah Native Youth Program, was recognized earlier.