Photo taken by Gary Bassing
Via the Orlando Magic:
The Orlando Magic Youth Fund, a McCormick Foundation Fund (OMYF-MFF), in a surprise ceremony presented checks totaling $1 million to 19 grantee organizations from three counties in Central Florida (Orange, Seminole and Osceola). The presentation of the OMYF All-Star Team was held on Wednesday, January 19 at the Amway Center. The presentation was done in the spirit of the NBA Draft as each non-profit organization was announced and came up on stage to be presented with an OMYF jersey or specialty basketball. Representatives were greeted by Orlando Magic CEO/Vice Chair Bob Vander Weide, Magic President Alex Martins, Magic Community Ambassador Bo Outlaw, Magic Vice President of Community Relations and Government Affairs Linda Landman-Gonzalez and the OMYF team.
With funds raised through OMYF, and the match provided by the McCormick Foundation, a total of $1 million in grants was distributed to these charities. In addition to the OMYF All-Star team announcement, the organizations were recognized at halftime of the Wednesday, January 19 Magic versus Sixers matchup.
After an extensive five-phase process, which began in July of 2010, the beneficiaries were recommended by the OMYF “VIP” Committee and the Advisory Council and then approved by the McCormick Foundation’s Board of Directors.
“We are proud to be able to assist organizations who are in need during these tough economic times,” said Orlando Magic President Alex Martins. “It is only possible through a collaborative effort of the DeVos family, this community, our players, coaches, staff, corporate partners and season ticket holders that we are capable of distributing $1 million this year. Most importantly we want to recognize and thank those who work every day with the youth of our community…they are the true heroes.”