BOULDER, COLO. — Star wide-receiver, DeSean Jackson, will be speaking once a month at Folsom Field about his “Shade the Homeless” campaign. These special events will begin at the end of the 2018 season and will continue until the beginning of the 2019 season. All Black Bear fans, players, coaches, local business owners, and residents are welcomed to attend.
According to The Denver Post in 2017, Boulder has seen an increase in homelessness throughout the past few years mainly due to the rise in house costs. Recently, this issue has been noted as more prominent with all of Colorado increasing by 4% in homelessness in 2016 (McGhee, T., & Associated Press, 2017). Tom Hill, Boulder Black Bears Community Relations Official stated, “I am excited to see how this campaign unfolds within the Boulder community and if we will see an increase in volunteers at local homeless shelters.”
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, currently, Boulder has a 12.6% poverty rate and the majority of Boulder residents (94.6%) are high school graduates whereas only 60.4% of residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher (U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts). Additionally, the Neighborhood Scout states Boulder is ranked 12 on the crime index, 100 being the safest and has an annual violent crime of 276 and 3,820 property crimes creating a total of 4,096 crimes (Boulder). These factors heavily influence and contribute to the issue of homelessness in Boulder.
“This is the perfect opportunity for the players and coaches to give back to the community and help make a difference,” stated Public Relations Chair, Jillian Breeger. “The off-season is the perfect time for the Black Bears to partner with DeSean Jackson and his “Shade the Homeless” campaign so that schedules are flexible, and everyone can take the time to truly understand the issue and how they can help support those in need.”
Jackson began the “Shade the Homeless” campaign to serve the homeless in Los Angeles. This foundation donates headwear for the homeless during the harsh winter and hot summer months to protect the homeless from health concerns such as hypothermia and skin cancer. Jackson stated, “I am ready to challenge my teammates, coaches, local Boulder residents and business owners to take initiative and support those in need.”
About The Boulder Black Bears
The coaches, players, and the organization of the Boulder Black Bears support the homeless and encourages everyone in the Boulder community to give back to help make a positive impact in the city. The Black Bears strive to be the best fantasy football team possible on and off the field. To find more information about the Boulder Black Bears and their upcoming events featuring star player, DeSean Jackson and his “Shade the Homeless” campaign, please visit www.BoulderIsHome.org.
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