Vancouver Whitecaps FC are proud to announce the launch of the club’s annual fundraising campaign #BuckUp for Mental Health. The campaign runs throughout the month of May, culminating at the ‘Caps match on Saturday, May 28 when Whitecaps FC take on Houston Dynamo at BC Place.
The 'Caps are looking to raise over $22,000 – the equivalent of one dollar per fan in the stadium.
“A dollar per person may not seem like much,” says Whitecaps FC president Bob Lenarduzzi, “but when our fans come together for this worthwhile cause, we can reach this goal and make a big difference in the lives of youth in our community.”
This year, the funds raised through #BuckUp for Mental Health will be donated to Whitecaps FC community partner Covenant House Vancouver.
Covenant House Vancouver works to improve the lives of more than 1,500 homeless youth, most of whom struggle with mental illness. One of Covenant House Vancouver’s key initiatives includes a soccer program which has proven successful in the rehabilitation of youth including Erin, who is featured in the #BuckUp video.
Whitecaps FC are also proud to have the support of the Vancouver Police Department who will be on site to help collect donations at half-time on May 28.
New this year, the ‘Caps are excited to offer an online auction for fans to support #BuckUp for Mental Health. Fans can choose from a variety of unique items and one-of-a-kind experiences, including a day of golf with former Whitecaps FC defender and South Korean legend Young-Pyo Lee, a personal coaching session with Whitecaps FC club ambassador Carl Valentine, or a behind-the-scenes tour of the Vancouver Police Department’s K9 unit.
Participating is easy – there are many ways to show your support:
- Donate online at whitecapsfc.com/buckup. Club ambassador Y.P. Lee has committed to matching online donations up to $12,000.
- Bid on an auction item or experience. View items and place your bids online here.
- Bring at least one dollar to the match on Saturday, May 28 when the ‘Caps take on Houston Dynamo. Help us raise one dollar per fan for a total of over $22,000.
- Spread the word via social media by sharing the #BuckUp video or re-tweeting.
Please join us and #BuckUp for Mental Health in support of Covenant House Vancouver.
