= food distribution = entertainment = stadium event

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Boise, ID - April 19, 2008 |

Host: Boise State University
(Food Distribution)
A whole community came together to lift up their city by fighting hunger. Boise State University, Tyson Foods, The Idaho Food Bank, Rachel's Challenge, and other Lift Up America partners united to make a big dent in the hunger challenge in Southern Idaho. Inspired by Rachel's Challenge, Boise area high schools leveraged their school clubs to raise up tons of non-perishible food items. Tyson Foods brought a semi-truck load of much-needed protein. Boise State players and other volunteers joined the effort on the Boise campus. Local charitable agencies will receive the food and make sure it gets to the neediest citizens in the Treasure Valley. |
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San Jose, CA - March 4, 2008 |

Host: San Jose Sharks (NHL)
(Food Distribution)
The Tyson Foods truck knows the way to San Jose and brought 25,000 pounds of protein. San Jose Sharks players, President and CEO, Greg Jamison, Dan Rusanowsky, the "voice" of the Sharks, and "S.J. Sharkie", the Sharks' mascot, were on hand to help distribute it to over 20 local charitable agencies who in turn share it with those in need. City Team hosted our event this year and served as the anchor agency. We are so thankful to the companies, volunteers, and service agencies who untied to make this event possible.
San Jose event stories:
Spotlight: Feeding Frenzy
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Greenville, SC - February 18, 2008 |

Host: Furman University/Greenville
(Food Distribution)
Thanks to Tyson and Furman University, there was a great impact in this "small" city. The Furman University Paladins once again joined us to help distribute over 30,000 pound of protein and other canned goods to over 45 local charitable agencies this winter. Players from the football team, head coach, Bobby Lam, and the Paladin mascot were on hand outside of West End Field (in Greenville) to lift up those in need. A great group of volunteers in Greenville has continued to make this event a big success.
Furman University/Greenville event stories:
Furman University site
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Fayetteville, AR - January 26th, 2008 |

Host: Univ. of Arkansas
(Food Distribution)
The University of Arkansas Razorbacks flexed their muscle to help the less fortunate receive some much-needed protein this winter. Protein is one of the most nutritious sources of energy and many food banks run low this time of year. Thanks to (near-by) Tyson Foods, their dedicated drivers delivered a huge refrigerated truck full of over 30,000 lbs of protein to help fight hunger in the area. Razorback athletes (from the women's volleyball and men's football teams), cheerleaders, and the Razorback mascot, Big Red, were on-hand at the Broyles Athletic Complex to help 33 local agencies (led by the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank).
University of Arkansas event stories:
Hogwired.com
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Winston-Salem, NC - January 24th, 2008 |

Host: Wake Forest University
(Food Distribution)
The Demon Decons of Wake Forest again hosted Lift Up America, Tyson Foods, and other generous organizations and volunteers to lift up the less fortunate in North Carolina. Demon Decon athletes from the National Champion men's soccer team, the football team, the women's field hockey team, and others were on hand at Groves Stadium to help distribute over 30,000 pounds of protein to 18 area agencies (led by Second Harvest Food Bank). Adding much cheer were the Pep Band and the Demon Decon mascot.
Wake Forest event stories:
Wake Forest Website report
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Shreveport, LA - December 27/30th, 2007 >>more |

Host: The Independence Bowl
(Food Distribution/Stadium Event)
Fairground Field
Shreveport, LA
This unique event had two parts: a food distribution on December 27 and an opportunity for 250 less-fortunate children and their mentors to attend the Independence Bowl on December 30th. We are thankful for the Independence Bowl, Tysone Foods, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and all the wonderful volunteers who made this event possible. This year's match up featured the Alabama Crimson Tide against the University of Colorado Buffaloes.
Independence Bowl event stories:
Spotlight: Going the Extra Mile or Two
Colorado Players step up
The News Star article
The Shreveport Times
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Kansas City, MO- December 18th, 2007 >>more |

Host: Kansas City Chiefs
(Food Distribution)
Arrowhead Stadium
Kansas City, MO
The Kansas City Chiefs were one of the first teams to step up and pioneer the Food Distribution concept with Lift Up America and Tyson Foods. Again this winter, a truckload of 30,000 pounds of frozen chicken brought much needed protein to the less-fortunate in the Kansas City area.
Kansas City event stories:
>> Kansas City Event Page
Kansas City Chiefs' web site
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MIami, FL - December 11, 2007 >> more |

Host: Miami Dolphins
(Food Distribution)
Dolphin Stadium
Miami, FL
Our very first food distributions were hosted by the Dolphins. They continue their commitment to their community by once again helping to distribute a truck-load of Tyson chicken to the needy in the South Florida area. We are grateful to the Dolphins for helping to pioneer this strategy and blessing so many in the process. (Photo: Wayne Huizenga, Jr. owner of the Miami Dolphins, addresses the crowd at the first Miami Dolphins Food Distribution (2004)). This year's event included Greg Camarillo, Travis Daniels, John Denney, Brandon Fields, Samkon Gado, Ted Ginn Jr., Derek Hagan, Vonnie Holliday, Cleo Lemon, Chris Liewinski, Marquay Love, Reagan Mauia, Kerry Reed, Donnie Spragan and Julius Wilson joined Dolphins alums Keith Byars, Troy Drayton, Jim Jensen, O.J. McDuffie, Ed Perry and Shawn Wooden to help unload a truck containing more than 35,000 pounds of protein products that were distributed to area hunger relief agencies.
Miami event stories:
Miami Dolphins report
>> Miami Event Page
Spotlight: Dolphin Victory
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Denver, CO - December 4, 2007 >> more |

Host: Denver Nuggets (NBA) (Food Distribution)
Pepsi Center
Denver, CO
In a cold climate, it was wonderful to have such a warm Spirit. The Denver Nuggets again joined up with Tyson Foods and Lift Up America to bring food and hope to thousands of less-fortunate families in the Denver area. The entire team participated to help local charitable agencies who will, in turn, help thousands in their communities.
Denver event stories:
Denver Nuggets Golden Moment
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Cleveland, OH - November 27, 2007 |

Host: Cleveland Browns (NFL)
(Food Distribution)
Cleveland, OH
Once again the Cleveland Browns made a difference in their city at holiday time. Tyson Foods donated a truck load of protein (30,000 pounds of chicken) that aided many of the agencies that work with the neediest in the Cleveland area. When someone's struggling, a meal can really make a big difference. We are thankful to the Cleveland Browns, Tyson Foods, and the many volunteers and agencies who make this effort possible. Cleveland Browns players in attendance: (kicker) Phil Dawson, (defensive lineman) Simon Fraser, (wide receiver) Syndric Steptoe, (full back) Charles Ali, (defensive lineman) Chase Pittman, (defensive back) Brodney Pool, and (linebacker) Antwan Peek.
Cleveland event stories:
ClevelandBrowns.com video
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San Diego , CA - November 13, 2007 >> more |

Host: San Diego Chargers (Food Distribution/Disaster Relief)
San Diego , CA
The San Diego Chargers lifted up their community both by their play on the field and their work in the community. That spirit contined on November 13, as the Chargers, in association with Lift Up America, Tyson, and many other sponsors, address the unique needs this region has.
Photo Gallery:
>>Check out our San Diego event photo gallery
San Diego event stories:
San Diego Event Page
San Diego Chargers Report
Spotlight: SD Food Distribution
Spotlight: Making a Difference
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Boise, ID - November 3, 2007 |
Host: Boise State Broncos (Stadium Event)
Bronco Stadium , Boise, ID
In Boise, hundreds of less fortunate children arrived to find a tailgate party just for them. Then before the game with San Jose State, they ran out on to the unique blue field just like the players with cheerleaders, the Boise State band, and fans in the stadium cheering them on. A special viewing area in the Caven-Williams practice facility next door will allow them a premium view of the game. Afterwards, former and current Bronco players came to encourage and interact with the kids. It's a winning program giving needy kids the hope that they too can be winners.
Boise event stories:
Spotlight: Boise State Stadium Event
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Los Angeles , CA - October 20, 2007 |

Host: Chivas USA (MLS)
(Food Distribution)
Los Angeles, CA
Chivas USA battled for the western division title but not before fighting against hunger in their community. Chivas players and volunteers distributed 30,000 pounds of protein to Los Angeles area agencies. These agencies are then able to replenish their supplies and effectively and consistently help those in their communities. That evening they played their division rivals to a 0-0 draw.
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Columbia, SC - September 28, 2007 |
Host: University of South Carolina (Food Distribution)
This nationally ranked football program is showing that it cares about more than scoring touchdowns. USC Gamecock student-athletes pitched in to give much needed protein to the less fortunate in the Columbia, SC area. Tyson Foods donated 30,000 pounds of chicken and local agencies refreshed their stock of this important nutritional item.
USC event stories:
Gamecock Athletics Preview
University of South Carolina
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Detroit Lions Food Distribution |
September 25, 2007
The resurgent Detroit Lions are impressing people on the field and off the field. An example of the latter was the Detroit Lions food distribution. Dozens of local charitable agencies were thrilled to receive the chicken donated by Tyson Foods.
"I just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for the 700 lbs. of chicken. Our food pantry can always use it and now our freezers are full for people. We were really thrilled to have this much for our clients.Thanks for thinking of us." -Janice Cross - Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency
Detroit event stories:
Detroit Lions Preview
United Way (UWSEM)
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September 25, 2007
Grauman's Chinese Theater
Hollywood, CA
Imagine a premiere where less fortunate children are the stars - walking the red carpet, experiencing the flash of the cameras, people asking for their autograph, and being cheered by celebrities and other VIPs. An estimated 1200 children joined us for an experience of a lifetime at this world-famous theatre.
Meet Me in Miami, staring Carlos Ponce, Eduardo Verastegui, and Jennifer Salinasis, is a family-friendly comedy/romance produced by Servant Entertainment and Palm Tree Productions.
Photo Gallery:
>> Click here to view photos from the event!
Hollywood event stories:
Backstage.com
Spotlight: Hooray for Hollywood
Spotlight: Major Emotion Picture Event
TV Guide news
LUA Spotlight: Hooray for Hollywood!
Christian Examiner
You Tube Video
Star Pulse: photos
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Miami Dolphins Stadium Event |
August 25, 2007
Is anything bigger than Dolphin mania in South Florida? That's why it was so special for a selected group of less fortunate children and their chaperones to be offcial MVPs at a Miami Dolphin pre-season game.
Our MVPs were welcomed by celebrities, athletes, cheerleaders, the Dolphin mascot and community leaders. In front of thousands, they were part of a human "flag" during the national anthem followed by another exciting Dolphins' football game. At half-time each child was given a coupon for a $5000 scholarship to Dallas Christian College. These kids will remember for a long time their day with the Dolphins.
Miami Dolphins event stories:
Miami Herald web-article
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Miami Dolphins Stadium Event |
August 4, 2007
Lifting up the kids was the goooooooooooal at our very first soccer stadium event at Pizza Hut Park in Frisco, TX. FC Dallas hosted thousands of kids who had their own special tailgate party, special on-the-field activities, and a chance to cheer on the home town club from their own special section of the stadium. FC Dallas prevailed over the Colorado Rapids 1-0. (Click to read about the game)
These events are about more than giving people a fun day. It's about filling at-risk chidlren with hope and a belief that their dreams can come true. Many of our LUA MVPs would never normally be able to have an exerience like this. A Stadium experience can plant that seed of hope that other dreams can also come true.
FC Dallas event stories:
Event Page
FC Dallas Preview
FC Dallas Foundation (article)
Frisco Star (article)
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Minnesota Twins Stadium Event |
June 12, 2007
They go together: Baseball, hot dogs, Lift Up America! Over a thousand children and their families had a special experience as the Minnesota Twins hosted a LUA Stadium event at the Metrodome.
These events are about more than giving people a fun day. It's about filling people with hope and a belief that their dreams can come true. Many of our LUA MVPs would never normally be able to have an exerience like this. A Stadium experience can plant that seed of hope that other dreams can also come true.
Minneapolis event stories:
Minneapolis Preview
Field of Dreams
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Kansas City Chiefs Stadium Event |
June 2, 2007
Lift Up America and its partners are continuing to innovate new ways to make children feel special. On June 2, hundreds of less fortunate kids received an experience they will never forget.
These Honored Guests arrived at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City for a KC Chiefs' spring practice game. After receiving their very own tailgate party, full of food, fun, and games, they ran around the field and were cheered by thousands of fans in the seats. High above they saw themselves on the giant video screens. Then from their own special section in the stands, the kids had an up-close view of their favorite team. After the game, team owner Clark Hunt and several selected players spent a special session with the children.
Photo Gallery:
>> Click here to view photos from the event!
Kansas City event stories:
Kansas City Preview
Picture Perfect Day in Kansas City
Kansas City Chiefs' article on Clark Hunt and LUA
Kansas City Chiefs article
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Dallas Meet Me in Miami Premiere |
April 24, 2007
Despite severe weather in the Dallas area, more than 2000 children and their families were treated like stars as part of Lift Up America's Giving Hope Tour.
Most premieres focus on the movie stars, directors, and producers, but this "Meet Me in Miami" premiere was all about the audience. Less fortunate children and their families arrived by limousine, walked the red carpet, saw themselves on the JumboTron, and were welcomed by celebrities and local dignitaries who asked for their autograph.
"We can do something to give them hope and dignity that changes their feeling of self worth and gives them the confidence that they can be the next President, the next general, the next business leader, or the next inventor of something wonderful," said Karen Faith Heller, CEO of CogMotion, Inc, who helped bring these children to this event.
Dallas event stories:
Whirlwind Tour Hits Dallas
A Diverse Partnership
Live Design
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February 12, 2007
In a word, it was ENORME (huge)!
The children were the stars of our Meet Me in Miami premiere in Mexico City. They had the thrill of walking the red carpet, experiencing the media crush, and being cheered on all sides. Lift Up America's Giving Hope Tour aims at creatively meeting both the physical and emotional needs of our honored guests, and we had the privilege of lifting up over 1800 of them, many with special needs.
We hope this experience made a huge difference and judging by the enorme smiles on their faces, it did!
Mexico event stories:
Lifting Up Mexico
First Lady of Mexico
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National Food Distribution |
September 10, 2006 to January 27, 2007
There are hundreds of charitable agencies who are meeting the daily needs of the less fortunate in cities all over our country. Many are nearly out of resources especially during the holidays. Our National Food Distribution is a series of events in over 26 cities around the U.S. Each one is hosted by a college or professional sports team. Local charitable agencies are able to recieve food items, teddy bears, and protien from Tyson Foods. At the same time, in some locations, Give the Gift of Sight is giving many in the commuity new pairs of glasses. The Starkey Hearing Foundation is also providing hearing-aids for needy families in the area. Together, our partners and sponsors can really make an impact on the community.
National Food Distribution Event Page
Food Distribution stories:
FC Dallas Hosts Event
Greenville
Tyson - Greenville (etc) (article)
Chicago
Mephis Grizzlies Partner with Lift Up America
Baptist Standard (article)
You Tube Video (San Jose)
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December 5, 2006
One day; one city; two events.
During the day - a Sports Event at Arrowhead Stadim.
During the night - an Entertainment Event at Merriam Cinemark 20 Theatre.
On a cold day many local charitable agencies arrived at Arrowhead Statdium. Kansas City players helped load and unload as local charitable agencies received much needed food such as chicken from Tyson Foods. In turn, they will be able to serve the less-fortunate in their communities.
Later that day, hundreds of kids and their families experienced the thrill of walking the red carpet, complete with paparazzi, cheering, stars asking for their autograph, wonderful gifts, and more. Qualifying kids received hearing aids (from Starkey) and glasses (from Luxottica). Every child attending the event also receives other gifts such as jewelry, teddy bears, and more.
>> Click here for more
Kansas City event stories:
Red Carpet Reversal
Premiere Business Partner
Premiere Sports Partner
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October 10, 2006
During LUA - San Francisco, hundreds of families and charitable agencies arrived at the waterfront to receive much needed assistance. Lenscrafters was there to test and fit kids for glasses. The Starkey Hearing Foundation gave away free hearing aids to deserving kids. Tyson Foods and other generous donated truckloads of protein and other food items to address the challenge of hunger.
>> Click here for more
San Francisco event stories:
What Difference Does it Make?
Helper Gets Help
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September 12, 2006
The National Kick-Off is the first in a series events around the US designed to lift up America’s less fortunate. Each event combines the generosity of companies, the caring of college and professional sports teams, and grass-roots effectiveness of charitable agencies.
During the National Kick-Off, hundreds of families and charitable agencies arrived at historic Pier 92 to receive much needed assistance. Lenscrafters was there to test and fit kids for glasses. The Starkey Hearing Foundation gave away free hearing aids to deserving kids. Tyson Foods and other generous companies distributed 7 truckloads of protein and other food items to address the challenge of hunger.
>> Click here for more
New York event stories:
New York City Kick-Off
New York Trends
Hearing Restored
Commanding Respect
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 = food distribution  = entertainment  = stadium event |