$20,000 Gift to Boost EIU's Alcohol Education/Awareness Efforts
Sep-13-2005The Michael Andretti Foundation donated $20,000 from a $100,000 fund provided by Jim Beam to Eastern Illinois University at Chicagoland Speedway Sunday, Sept. 11.
Andretti presented the check personally to university officials, which included EIU President Lou Hencken, in front of fans during pre-race ceremonies before the start of the IndyCar® Series race. The donation is earmarked for the purpose of alcohol education programs on university campuses, and institutions are selected based on recommendations from The Century Council, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting responsible decision-making regarding beverage alcohol.
“We are very encouraged by the dedication being shown by The Michael Andretti Foundation, Jim Beam Brands Co. and The Century Council to educate students on the importance of making responsible decisions regarding beverage alcohol,” Hencken said. “We look forward to using this funding to increase our alcohol education and awareness efforts.”
Jim Beam, sponsor of Andretti Green Racing and 2005 Indianapolis 500 winner Dan Wheldon, presented the $100,000 donation to The Michael Andretti Foundation earlier this year as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to promote responsible choices about alcohol. Since its first donation in 2003, Jim Beam has contributed a total of $300,000 to the foundation to help America “drink smart”®. Throughout the 2005 Indy Racing League IndyCar® Series season, Andretti will present a portion of the funds to local universities in various race markets for the purpose of alcohol education.
“To have the support of Jim Beam again this year is great,” said Andretti. “With every donation we are able to make a difference and educate people on the importance of responsible drinking. Not only is Jim Beam a great partner on the track with the racing team, but they have proven to be a valuable partner off the track as well.”
