US (MNN) — The Dallas Mavericks have a new tactic up their sleeves. This basketball season, they decided that playing basketball just wasn't enough. So they're teaming up with 6 North Texas charity organizations, including Buckner International, to donate a portion of each game ticket purchased.
The Mavericks will highlight Buckner as part of their "Mavs Charity Challenge" on February 7th, 2011 when they play against the Cleveland Cavaliers. For every ticket purchased through this offer and through the special "buckner" code, the Mavericks will donate $5 toward Buckner Children and Family Services.
In addition to helping Buckner through basketball games, the team lent a hand during Thanksgiving time. Mavericks guard Jason Terry, in partnership with Kroger Food, helped to deliver 200 turkey meals to families supported by Buckner; these families also received a $25 gift card to Kroger.
The team then partnered with Nick & Sam's Steakhouse to host 120 children from Buckner after-school programs. The Mavericks played basketball with the kids and then served them a Thanksgiving meal. This was the first time that the Mavs' "Turkey Dunk" partnered with Buckner for the event.
Vice President of Public relations and marketing at Buckner said, "We are so thankful to the Mavericks and Nick & Sam's for providing this great day for our kids. You could tell everyone was having a great time."
The Dallas Mavericks, along with supporting Buckner International, have set up additional game days that ticket sales will go to support separate charities. The charity that generates the most ticket sales for their designated game date will also receive an additional $2 per ticket donated by the Mavericks.
"The work that the Mavericks do in the Dallas community has a huge impact, and we are thrilled that our children and families will be a part of this," said Myndi Easter, Buckner Events Manager. "They are a great organization to work with, and the night will be a lot of fun for those who want to support Buckner and the Mavs."
The hope of Christ can be shared by just the purchase of a NBA Maverick ticket. By following the instructions on the Maverick Web site, you can support a child or family in need this basketball season. If you can't go to the game, you can still donate to Buckner International to help support an orphan, at-risk children, and families. Pray that the Mavericks' support of these charities will be affirmed by ticked purchases and attendance at the games. Also pray that the Lord will use this event to bring support to Buckner International's ministry to families around the world.
