Dick Crippen to Emcee Clearwater for Youth’s Annual Celebrity Banquet

Sports are big part of American culture, in fact, millions of US children play organized sports.  However, not every child gets to play sports depending on the cost to participate.  Clearwater for Youth (CFY), a not-for-profit, started back in 1972 to help give back to the community by supporting athletic programs where children can play sports, no matter their economic condition.  The cause has been supported by many celebrity sports figures over the years, with appearances at CFY’s Celebrity Sports Banquet held every year in February.  A staunch supporter and long-time staple of sports broadcasting in Tampa Bay, Dick Crippen, will emcee CFY’s 37^th Annual Celebrity Sports Banquet at the Sheraton Sand Key on Saturday, February 27, 2010.

Besides having fun, there are many life-long benefits for children who play sports:  developing physical skills, getting exercise, making friends, learning to play as a member of a team and improving self-esteem.  CFY believes today as it did over 35 years ago that there is no better investment than an investment in our youth, who will be the leaders of tomorrow.  

CFY’s 37^th Annual Celebrity Banquet will also be supported by Angelo Dundee, the Blue Jays, the Rays and the Phillies.

“Being on a sports team can teach a child about commitment and about the benefits of hard work,” said Brian Aungst, Chairman of Clearwater for Youth’s Board of Trustees and former Mayor of Clearwater.  “Our programs have helped thousands of children and we plan to continue doing so.” 

Tickets at $200 apiece and tables at $1500 are still available for the event. 

For more information about Clearwater for Youth, visit http://www.clearwaterforyouth.org/ or call 727-793-2696.

About Clearwater for Youth:

Clearwater for Youth (CFY) was incorporated as a not-for-profit, tax-deductible organization, in 1972, to help its community youth reach their fullest potential through enriching and productive activities.  Thousands of children and dedicated volunteers have participated in a variety of CFY sports activities throughout the years.  The focus of CFY has always been supporting programs that encourage character building, sportsmanship and teamwork.  At one time, CFY was in charge of a myriad of programs that boys and girls participated in such as football, cheerleading, baseball, softball, soccer, basketball, karate, golf and more.  Today, to help ensure that no child is turned away due to financial concerns, CFY encourages youth sports in the community by offering scholarship opportunities, grants and matching funds to youth programs and participants in need.  CFY’s mission has never wavered nor has their philosophy, “building character through sports.”  CFY believes today as it did over 35 years ago that there is no better investment than an investment in our youth, the leaders of tomorrow.  CFY’s Annual Sports Celebrity Banquet has been graced by many well-known local and national celebrities, including Joe DiMaggio, Mike Alstott and Tom Lasorda.  To find out more or to help, visit http://www.clearwaterforyouth.org/

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