April 3, 2013 - Playworks Portland announced today that hubbub health - a technology-driven wellness solution that uses social connections and the love of the game to inspire individuals to get moving and live healthy - will serve as a lead sponsor for the non-profit organization’s 4th annual Corporate Kickball Fundraiser. The event will take place June 21 at Portland Community College’s Rock Creek campus.
All proceeds from Corporate Kickball sponsorships support Playworks Portland’s efforts to prevent bullying, boost physical activity and foster self-confidence through its programs in 13 low-income Portland area elementary schools reaching more than 5,500 students.
“We are delighted that hubbub has decided to stand up for Portland students by helping to foster positive, inclusive play in targeted elementary schools. The generous support of Portland businesses like hubbub is a crucial element of the dynamic partnership between coaches, parents, teachers and administrators,” said Jonathan Blasher, Playworks Portland executive director. “Together, these community members are making a real difference in the lives of thousands of kids in the Portland metro area.”
Launched in Portland in 2009, the Playworks places trained young adults, frequently AmeriCorps volunteers, in schools to provide students with positive framework for safe, healthy and inclusive play. The program empowers students to resolve their conflicts without harsh words or violence. Additionally, the Playworks offers a Junior Coach program, mentoring a handful of students in each school who help manage playground activities, cultivate respect and assist other students with resolving heated disagreements without fights.
“hubbub health is thrilled to be a lead sponsor for Playworks’ Corporate Kickball. The event directly mirrors our mission, to get employees moving,” said hubbub’s Director of Business Development, Brian Berchtold. “hubbub had a team at last year's Corporate Kickball Fundraiser, and while we did not win the tournament, our group had a super fun time playing together outdoors - laughing, relaxing and exercising all at the same time!”
More than just a game
In addition to offering local businesses an opportunity to give back to their community, the annual Playworks Corporate Kickball Tournament is a chance for participants to enjoy an afternoon of competitive play, networking and teambuilding with colleagues. Past tournament winners include; 2010 Nike, 2011 Portland Trail Blazers and 2012 Columbia Sportswear.
Team size varies from eight to 15 individuals with participation starting at $1,500 and sponsorship levels at $3,000 and up. A percentage of the contribution is tax-deductible. Businesses interested in participating or becoming a sponsor should email [email protected].
“With hubbub’s backing, we’re closer to reaching our goal of expanding to 18 area schools next year to bring the wide span of benefits of positive play to hundreds of more children in Oregon,” said Playworks Portland Executive Director Jonathan Blasher.
About hubbub health
For people who want to live a healthier lifestyle, have fun, and enjoy a little friendly competition, hubbub is the answer. It's a mobile and online playground that uses the love of the game to inspire people to get and stay healthy. hubbub's innovative employer wellness solution provides a lively, social and flexible way to make sustainable changes for the better. By connecting people with their co-workers, friends, and family, hubbub challenges them to make - and keep - healthy choices together. hubbub is offered to employers at just $3 per employee per month. Register for hubbub at no costat www.hubbubhealth.com or download the free app onto your iPhone. hubbub is a member of Cambia Health Solutions, a total health solutions company headquartered in the Pacific Northwest.
About Playworks
Playworks Portland represents the Pacific Northwest operations of the national non-profit organization. Playworks, headquartered in Oakland, California, works in 22 cities across the country. The organization has been featured in The New York Times, Forbes Magazine and ABC’s “Good Morning America.”
Since launching in 2009, Playworks Portland has garnered the support of more than a dozen local foundations, including The Collins Foundation, HK & AE Johnson Foundation, and Ray Hickey Foundation. Playworks Portland has been featured inOregon Jewish Life magazine, the Statesman Journal and the Portland Tribune. In 2011 and 2012, Oregon Businessmagazine named the organization one of the 100 Best Nonprofits to Work For in Oregon. For more information, visit:www.playworks.org/portland.
