September 2, 2011
Press Release

THINK DETROIT PAL BENEFITS FROM 15TH ANNUAL DETROIT LIONS KICKOFF LUNCHEON

Detroit, Mich – On Wednesday, the Detroit Economic Club hosted the 15th Annual Detroit Lions Kickoff Luncheon. Think Detroit PAL was the primary beneficiary of the event, which was held in the atrium at Ford Field. The luncheon was open to the public and reached capacity after nearly 1,000 tickets were sold. The event gives fans the opportunity to have lunch with the team, as one player was seated at each table. Every Lions player and coach was in attendance.

Prior to the event, Think Detroit PAL cheerleaders kindly greeted the attendees as they entered Ford Field. Members from Think Detroit PAL’s Northwest Cougars and Eastside Raiders football programs attended the even as well. The program began with the introduction of the 2011 Detroit Lions by the team’s radio play-by-play duo of Dan Miller and Jim Brandstatter, who also doubled as the masters of ceremonies.  Once the players and coaches were seated, a video highlighting Think Detroit PAL was played.

Think Detroit PAL CEO Michael Porter delivered a brief speech that focused on how TDP programs build character in the girls and boys that the organizations serves, in hopes of guiding them to becoming productive adults, which translates into a better Detroit. During his remarks, Porter also mentioned success stories from Think Detroit PAL like Detroit Police Chief Ralph Godbee Jr., whom he introduced. Godbee spoke about his experience playing quarterback for the Eastside Cowboys, and how it helped him through one of the most difficult times of his life. He also talked about how contributions to the organization can help TDP broaden its range and reach more girls and boys.

After Lions president Tom Lewand addressed the audience, Lions head coach Jim Schwartz thanked every one in attendance for supporting Think Detroit PAL and found a parallel between his team and the youth that take part in TDP programs.

“None of us would be here right now if someone didn’t take interest in us when we were young,” said Schwartz.

To view photos, click here.

Think Detroit PAL was formed in 2006 with the merger of Think Detroit Inc. and the Detroit Police Athletic League.  In partnership with the Detroit Police Department and community volunteers, Think Detroit PAL builds character in young people through athletic, academic and leadership development programs.  In 2010, Think Detroit PAL served over 10,000 girls and boys through 10 sports, making it one of the largest youth organizations in the state of Michigan. More than 80 cents of each dollar donated to Think Detroit PAL goes directly into programming.

For more information, to volunteer or to make a donation, please contact Think Detroit PAL at 313-833-1600 or on the web at www.thinkdetroitpal.org.