Academy Sports + Outdoors Spreads Holiday Cheer with Over $135,000 in Gifts

Academy Sports + Outdoors, a prominent retailer known for its outdoor and sports gear, has gone above and beyond this holiday season by donating more than $135,000 to local families. The company's efforts to give back to the community went hand in hand with its well-regarded commitment to providing unbeatable prices and great value to its customers.

Throughout the holiday season, Academy organized more than 40 local events, ensuring that families from all walks of life could experience joy, connection, and festive spirit. Each event was designed to meet the unique needs of the local communities in its 21-state footprint, incorporating various charitable initiatives tailored to make a lasting impact.

Over 500 families had the opportunity to visit Academy stores, where they shopped for holiday gifts with the help of gift cards provided by the company. The joy in these stores was palpable as community members came together to celebrate the season of giving.

Noteworthy appearances by well-known athletes further lit up these events, as figures like Shaquille O’Neal partnered with local organizations like the Boys & Girls Club of Henry County. His noteworthy participation exemplified the spirit of collaboration and community involvement that Academy strives to foster.

In addition to O'Neal, the company also collaborated with numerous teams and community factions, including the Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation, the Houston Astros, and the Indianapolis Colts. These partnerships allowed for exciting holiday shopping sprees and interactive events, generating unforgettable experiences for local kids. For instance, Indianapolis Colts wide receivers engaged with children from the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization, where they enjoyed a day full of holiday cheer and fun.

Academy did not stop at organizing events; they also contributed significantly by covering nearly $72,000 worth of holiday gifts for unsuspecting shoppers, ensuring that wish lists were fulfilled all around.

Meredith Klein, the Vice President of Communications at Academy Sports + Outdoors, expressed her gratitude for being able to bring joy and create meaningful experiences during this special time of year. Klein stated, “Bringing joy and creating meaningful experiences is what Academy is all about. We’re honored to help families create lasting memories and grateful to partner with organizations that made this special season possible.”

Beyond gift-giving, Academy’s philanthropic efforts create a ripple effect across communities, showcasing the importance of corporate responsibility during the holiday season. By supporting organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs of America, just keep livin Foundation, and local police departments, Academy is forging significant partnerships that further foster a sense of community and goodwill.

In conclusion, Academy Sports + Outdoors continues to exemplify how a business can merge strong commercial values with meaningful acts of kindness. Their generous spirit not only nourishes local families but also instills hope and happiness in many during the festive season. The company's ongoing dedication to community service ensures that each holiday season feels a little brighter for those in need, exemplifying the true spirit of giving during this joyous time:

About Academy Sports + Outdoors: Founded in 1938 as a family-run entity, Academy has since grown into a leading retailer in the sporting goods and outdoor recreation sector, boasting over 300 stores across the U.S.

To learn more about Academy’s commitment to giving back, visit Academy’s website.