SALT LAKE CITY (April 7, 2014) – The Utah Jazz and Mountain America Credit Union today announced the Columbus Community Center as the fifth recipient of ‘Pass It Along,’ a new program featuring fan nomination opportunities that will award a total of $25,000 to five local charitable organizations. The program is part of Mountain America and the Utah Jazz’s shared commitment to community outreach.
In recognition of its significant and ongoing contributions to local residents, Columbus Community Center will be presented with a $5,000 donation during the Jazz home game on Tuesday, April 8. Utah Jazz forward/center Derrick Favors and Mountain America Executive Vice President Marshall Paepke will help present the check to the organization.
As part of the program, Paepke and Utah Jazz broadcaster Thurl Bailey recently visited the Columbus Community Activity Center in South Salt Lake to learn first-hand about the non-profit’s efforts, take a tour of the facility and spend time with some of the organization’s clients.
“Everyone at Columbus is grateful for this generous donation from Mountain America Credit Union and the Utah Jazz. A donation like this makes a profound difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families,” said Stephanie Mackay, foundation director of Columbus Community Center. “The ‘Pass it Along’ program allows us to share the success stories of individuals with disabilities who overcome incredible obstacles to live and work in our community.”
Established in 1968 by concerned citizens and parents in the Salt Lake area, Columbus Community Center provides vocational, residential, and day activity programs that support individuals with disabilities so they can live and work with independence in the community. Columbus currently serves 400 individuals with a variety of services including a recreational activities, residential support, personal and social development, life skills training, occupational skills training, job coaching, supported employment in the community, and more.
In addition to receiving a $5,000 donation, every organization selected as a ‘Pass It Along’ recipient is treated to special visit from the Utah Jazz, tickets to an upcoming game and in-arena recognition. Past recipients include Shriner’s Hospitals for Children – Salt Lake City, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Intermountain Area, Utah Youth Village, and Boys & Girls Clubs of South Valley.