In June, a team of Guardian volunteers participated in New York City’s first Chris Canty Camp of Champions. This two-day event is the flagship activity of The Chris Canty Foundation, a philanthropic organization founded in 2007 by New York Giants defensive tackle Chris Canty.

Organized in partnership with United Way of New York City and the NYC Police Athletic League, the Camp of Champions attracted more than 300 young men between the ages of 8 and 16 who benefited from the opportunity to learn on and off the field lessons from Canty and 24 additional National Football League (NFL) players, all of whom volunteered their time. This was the first time the event was held in New York City, as well as the first time Guardian was invited to take part.

Proud to Take Part in Developing Others
Supporting United Way has been an integral part of Guardian’s corporate social responsibility initiatives for many years. Our company proudly participates in the organization’s fundraising and awareness activities and was honored to increase our level of involvement in 2011 by leading the way with the largest corporate team at the LIVE UNITED Bridge Walk in New York City. Guardian will once again take part in this year’s Bridge Walk on September 29, also serving as a main sponsor of the event.

Support That Makes a Difference
Throughout the Camp of Champions, Guardian volunteers were responsible for a variety of important tasks that guaranteed the event’s successful execution. From staffing the registration table and coordinating catering activities to managing the event’s banners and escorting campers to and from the subway station, they worked to ensure that the young New Yorkers enjoyed a safe, fun, and engaging experience.

The Chris Canty Foundation and United Way of New York City acknowledged Guardian for our company’s active participation in the first annual Camp of Champions in New York City, citing the enthusiasm and commitment of our employee volunteers as key factors in the event’s enormous success. Jennifer Jones Austin, Senior Vice President, United Way, shared that its positive outcome would not have been possible without Guardian’s valuable partnership.

“The sun was shining, the kids were smiling, and the camp will have long-lasting impact on more than 300 children who otherwise would not have had an opportunity like this,” she says. “Guardian’s support has made all the difference, enabling United Way to work with The Chris Canty Foundation and give New York City youth hope, promise, and potential.”