This month’s issue of Sports Illustrated Kids features Michelle Obama on the cover with athletes who are sharing the causes they are passionate about. This issue also includes a very special and moving story of 14-year-old Will Thomas, founder of Operation Hawkeye, a mission that raises support for U.S. Special Operation Forces and military families.
About Operation Hawkeye:
“Inspired by a tragic military event in the summer of 2011, the then 12-year-old Will Thomas committed himself to shoot 17,000 baskets in his driveway as a way to privately honor our fallen heroes. As others in the community learned of Will’s challenge they began pledging money for every basket made. The feat took him nearly 60 hours to complete and began a mission whose goal in 2013 is to raise over $300,000 for military forces and their families.
Sports Illustrated Kids believes Will is an example of how even kids can change their communities and is inviting others across the country to join Will in his next challenge. The E17 Free Throw Challenge is a 60-day basketball event where kids all over the country will attempt 1,700 (individual) or 17,000 (team) basketball free throws in an effort to raise money and awareness for military families.”
Visit the Sports Illustrated Kids Facebook Page to watch a video about Will’s Inspirational Story. While you are there share with SI Kids about how you and your family are using sports to give back to your communities.
For more information or to participate, individuals or teams can register and pledge funds at the Operation Hawkeye E17 website.
“All participants will receive recognition from the U.S. Special Operations Command as well as an Operation Hawkeye bracelet. The individual or team that raises the highest donation will receive further recognition and a special prize.”
The Sports Illustrated Kids July issue is now available on newsstands or through ITunes, Amazon Apps, Google Play or Nook Apps stores. You can subscribe to SI Kids today!
I am receiving products/compensation for posting this info. All opinions are my own.
