#United States #Boston #Sun Life #Boston Celtics #YMCA

Community Support Through Dunking

The Boston Celtics have once again showcased their commitment to health and wellness by partnering with Sun Life U.S. for the #SunLifeDunk4Diabetes campaign. This initiative, now in its twelfth year, has made significant strides in raising awareness and funds for diabetes prevention and management, as evidenced by the remarkable total of $125,000 raised in November alone.

A Slam Dunk for Diabetes Awareness

Held during National Diabetes Month, the #SunLifeDunk4Diabetes campaign works by allocating a generous $1,000 donation for every dunk made by a Celtics player during the month. This year's highlight was the impressive performance of Neemias Queta, who scored an astounding 22 dunks, supplemented by Josh Minott's 10 dunks. In a collaborative effort, the Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation matched donations up to $25,000, driving the total contributions higher for the YMCA of Greater Boston’s health, fitness, and nutrition programs.

Engaging the Celtics Community

The campaign not only resulted in financial contributions but also actively involved fans. Throughout November, Celtics enthusiasts participated in voting for their favorite dunks via Instagram, generating over 26,000 votes. Every vote translated into further donations from Sun Life, amplifying community engagement and support for an important social cause.

Voices from the Community

David Shapiro, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Boston, expressed gratitude towards the partnership between Sun Life and the Celtics, emphasizing the importance of awareness, education, and community health programs. He noted, "Diabetes is connected to numerous health risks, and initiatives like #SunLifeDunk4Diabetes enable us to equip our community with the tools needed for healthier living."

A Long-standing Partnership

The collaboration between Sun Life and the Boston Celtics reflects a long-standing commitment to community wellness. David Healy, President of Sun Life U.S., shared insights on how this partnership focuses on increasing diabetes awareness and supporting at-risk communities through various programs, including the annual Fit to Win initiative. This program, designed for children at YMCA locations in Greater Boston, has expanded and recently reached Portland, Maine, showcasing the broader impact of their joint efforts.

Impact Over 12 Years

The #SunLifeDunk4Diabetes campaign has amassed over $1.2 million since its inception, funding initiatives such as the Healthy Habits program, a crucial course aimed at educating participants about nutrition and fitness. Such programs are essential in combating diabetes and encouraging healthier lifestyles among Greater Boston residents.

Background on the Partners

Sun Life is known as a leading international financial services firm, while the YMCA of Greater Boston stands as a pillar of support for community health, empowering individuals and families for over 170 years. Together, they are making meaningful changes, proving that sports and community service can go hand in hand.

This year's successful fundraising not only amplifies the awareness surrounding diabetes but also highlights the generosity and commitment of the Celtics organization and their partners. With each dunk, they are not just scoring points on the basketball court; they are scoring a win for health and wellness in the community.