The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, announces the American Cornhole League (ACL) and Johnsonville are teaming up to raise $100,000 for the Robin Roberts Cancer Thrivership Fund with their #TrickShotsForGood challenge. There are 17 million cancer survivors in the U.S., and that number is expected to grow. The Robin Roberts Cancer Thrivership Fund provides support for urgently needed research into the biological basis and prevention of common long-term adverse effects experienced by cancer survivors.
The challenge kicked off on May 23 with the American Cornhole League Pro Invitational Qualifier airing on ESPN, and it will last for five weeks. Throughout the challenge, participants can post a video of a cornhole “trick shot” and tag @Johnsonville with the hashtag #TrickShotsforGood. Johnsonville will donate $1 to the V Foundation for each post, up to $100,000 total. While cornhole-specific trick shots are encouraged, fans who utilize other sports equipment or household items for their videos will also be counted.
In addition, the ACL will review all tagged #TrickShotsForGood posts and choose a few favorite trick shots each week to be featured during its weekend broadcast on ESPN.
“Cornhole and sausage on the grill are staples of backyard fun. We are thrilled to put those two things to work raising money for such a terrific cause and cannot wait to see what kind of creative trick shots America pulls off,” said Jamie Schmelzer, Johnsonville’s Integrated Marketing Director.
When fans post their trick shots, they’ll be joining the ranks of ACL stars, various celebrities and other online personalities. All participants who post their trick shot videos will be entered for a chance to win official ACL gear, such as official ACL boards, bags and apparel, and may also be featured during the ACL Pro Invitational Qualifier on ESPN.
“On behalf of our six ACL Pro cancer survivors and countless other impacted members that continue to thrive during these difficult times, the ACL cornhole community is excited to support the V Foundation in partnership with Johnsonville and ESPN,” said Stacey Moore, Commissioner of the American Cornhole League. “This is an extremely personal campaign for me. Having a mom who is a two-time breast cancer survivor, a father who unfortunately lost his battle and also being a graduate of NC State University, I am honored to play a small role in such a large effort.”
The ACL and Johnsonville are proud to support research for cancer survivorship, as survivors often endure health challenges and have unique biomedical needs long after their cancer treatment has ended. During the current COVID-19 health crisis, cancer patients, in addition to survivors, are especially vulnerable. Jim Valvano’s “Don’t Ever Give Up!” spirit is felt now more than ever, as we join together to support cancer research by helping a vulnerable community stay healthy.
“How exciting to team up with Johnsonville and the American Cornhole League to help 17 million cancer survivors,” said Susan Braun, Chief Executive Officer of the V Foundation. “We are grateful for their support and look forward to all the fun trick shots coming! We thank them for uniting so many people to raise money for those who have faced cancer. And the timing of this couldn’t be better as we recognize National Cancer Survivors Month in June.”
The V Foundation has proudly awarded more than $250 million for cutting-edge cancer research. The V Foundation holds a 4-star (highest) rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest evaluator of charities, and is among the top 3% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is a GuideStar platinum-rated charity.
For more information on the V Foundation for Cancer Research, please visit v.org.
About the V Foundation for Cancer Research
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach and ESPN commentator. The Foundation has funded more than $250 million in cancer research grants nationwide. The V Foundation awards 100% of direct donations to cancer research and programs. The V Foundation’s endowment covers administrative expenses. The Foundation awards peer-reviewed grants through a competitive awards process strictly supervised by a Scientific Advisory Committee. For more information on the V Foundation or to make a donation, please visit v.org.
About the American Cornhole League
The American Cornhole League (ACL), the originators of televised competitive cornhole, promotes and develops cornhole as a sport for any age and skill level. With over 350 directors all around the country, the ACL has solidified themselves as the go-to resource for all things cornhole. The organization has established the rules and regulations to govern the sports around the world. The ACL’s global headquarters are in Charlotte, North Carolina. For further information on the ACL or how to become a director, please visit the Company’s website at https://www.iplaycornhole.com/.
About Johnsonville, LLC
Wisconsin-based Johnsonville is the No. 1 national sausage brand, featuring: brats, Italian sausage, smoke-cooked links, breakfast sausage, summer sausage, and meatballs. Johnsonville products are served in more than 40 countries and in more than 140 professional, college and semi-pro sports stadiums throughout the U.S. Johnsonville employs approximately 2,100 members. Founded in 1945 by the late Ralph F. and Alice Stayer, the privately held company remains family owned today. For additional information, visit www.johnsonville.com.
About ESPN Corporate Citizenship
ESPN believes, at its very best, sports uplifts the human spirit. Its corporate citizenship programs use the power of sport to positively address society’s needs through strategic community investments, cause marketing programs, collaboration with sports organizations and employee volunteerism, while also utilizing its diverse media assets. For more information go to www.espn.com/citizenship.
