CONTACT: Nicole Woodie, Fruition Giving
(786) 863-7096/ [email protected]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Waterboys Initiative: NFL Players Bring Clean Water Projects to East Africa, Supported
by Sponsors Including Jim Beam®
For more than 200 years the world's No. 1 bourbon has recognized
the importance of clean water
ST. LOUIS, MO.– The Waterboys Initiative, a signature program of The Chris Long
Foundation focusing NFL players on the clean water crisis in Africa, officially announced a
sponsorship with the world's leading Bourbon maker, Jim Beam. Jim Beam is part of Beam
Suntory, the world's third largest premium spirits company.
“Since our beginning in 1795, Jim Beam Bourbon has understood how critical clean water is –
it’s foundational to the quality of our product and part of what makes Jim Beam world-class. We
also recognize the role water plays in creating a higher quality of life,” said Jay Kreikemeier,
State Manager Missouri Beam Suntory. “We're delighted to support the Waterboys Initiative
along with leaders like St. Louis Rams’ Chris Long – and players from across the NFL – to bring
the basic human dignity of clean water to communities in East Africa.”
The Waterboys Initiative unites NFL fans and stars to fund community clean water projects in
East Africa. Its goal is to fund 32 projects in water barren communities in desperate need. Each
project will represent an NFL team and support a community of 5000 people. Rams defensive
end Chris Long was inspired to launch the effort after climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2013; he
serves as Chairman of the initiative. Completed at a total cost of $45,000, each sustainable
project features solar power and is planned and created with strong community engagement.
Beginning immediately, branded Jim Beam polls about the product and its long-standing
commitment to clean water, will raise awareness for clean water among consumers of legal
drinking age. Content will appear on a variety of sports media sources through mid-February.
Jim Beam will also generate additional support through private events.
“We are thrilled to have the support of Jim Beam,” said Long. “When I began this project, I
envisioned fans and corporate supporters joining efforts to change as many lives as possible. To
have Jim Beam, a leader in their field and a symbol of American quality, choose to make this
commitment to clean water and Waterboys shows the power of what we can accomplish for
those in need.”
For more information about Jim Beam®, connect with them on Facebook
(www.facebook.com/JimBeam), Twitter (@jimbeam) or visit http://www.jimbeam.com.
For more information about the Waterboys Initiative, connect with them on Facebook
(www.facebook.com/Waterboysorg), Twitter (@WaterboysOrg) or learn more/donate at
www.waterboys.org
About Beam Suntory Inc.
As the world's third largest premium spirits company, Beam Suntory is Crafting the Spirits
Brands that Stir the World. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for the company's
brands, including the iconic Jim Beam and Maker's Mark bourbon brands and Suntory whisky
Kakubin, as well as world renowned premium brands including Knob Creek bourbon, Yamazaki,
Hakushu and Hibiki Japanese whiskies, Teacher's, Laphroaig, and Bowmore Scotch whiskies,
Canadian Club whisky, Courvoisier cognac, Sauza tequila, Pinnacle vodka, and Midori liqueur.
Beam Suntory was created in 2014 by combining the world leader in bourbon and the pioneer in
Japanese whisky to form a new company with a deep heritage, passion for quality, innovative
spirit and commitment to Growing for Good. Headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois, Beam
Suntory is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan. For more information on Beam
Suntory, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, please visit
www.beamsuntory.com and www.drinksmart.com.
About Waterboys:
Waterboys got its start during a 2013 trip by Long to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. Long was struck by
the beauty of Tanzania and the vibrancy of its people, but also witnessed great suffering due to a
lack of clean water. While in Tanzania, Long met Doug Pitt, Goodwill Ambassador for
Tanzania, and John Bongiorno, President of the non-profit WorldServe International and was
further educated on the needs and available solutions to the clean water crisis.
Returning home, Long began to envision a pathway to champion the need for clean water in East
Africa and engage other NFL players in the cause. In 2015, Long created the Waterboys
Initiative, selecting WorldServe International as its benefiting charity. Waterboys will work with
WorldServe International to build wells to provide life-giving water and all that comes from it –
the opportunity for education, good health, and economic stability. There are currently 22
“Waterboys,” including Long, on 21 teams that are committed to the effort; see a complete list at
committed “Waterboys” at www.waterboys.or/waterboys_profiles.
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