Kruzan Announces Jared Jeffries Donation to City for SportsPlex

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 25, 2009

For more information, contact:
Mick Renneisen, Director, City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department, 349-3711
Danny Lopez, Communications Director, City of Bloomington, 349-CITY, [lopezd@bloomington.in.gov|mailto:lopezd@bloomington.in.gov]




Bloomington, IN - Mayor Mark Kruzan announced today that Bloomington native, former Indiana University star [Jared Jeffries|thumbnail:4764,right]athlete and professional basketball player Jared Jeffries has pledged annual contributions to the City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department, beginning this year with a $25,000 contribution.

Jeffries told the City that the funds are intended to help programming at the SportsPlex in whatever ways the Parks and Recreation Department sees fit. SportsPlex is the fitness facility the City is seeking to purchase. Approval of the purchase must be granted by the City Council, and final action on the item will be taken April 1.

"Over the years, Jared has demonstrated his commitment to the Bloomington community by giving so much of his time and resources," Kruzan said. "His contributions will have a great impact on the lives of so many through the programs and services of our Parks and Recreation Department, and we are grateful for his continuing kindness and generosity to the City and to the residents of Bloomington."

Later this year, Jeffries also will host a fundraiser through his charitable organization, the Jared Jeffries Foundation, for the Parks and Recreation Department and has invited several NBA and NFL celebrities to attend. The proceeds of the fundraiser also will help with operating and maintaining the SportsPlex as well as other Parks programs.

"The community of Bloomington always did so much for me, so I always look forward to every opportunity to help however I can," said Jeffries. "The Parks and Recreation Department and I have a great vision of the many ways the SportsPlex can service people around town, and this is a wonderful first-step."

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