We’re all familiar with it. That image of a U.S. athlete standing atop the medal podium at the Olympic or Paralympic Games while “The Star-Spangled Banner” plays. Tears streaming down their face and tears streaming down our own faces as we contemplate Team USA’s impressive athletic achievements and take pride in knowing how well our country was represented on the greatest stage in sports.
Well, those moments would not be possible without you (and a whole lot of hard work, dedication and talent from the athletes!).
Here are eight reasons why you should support Team USA this Giving Tuesday.
1) Team USA’s Unprecedented Success In Rio
At the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, Team USA topped the medal chart in every category, bringing home 121 total medals for its biggest-ever haul at a non-boycotted Games. U.S. athletes also broke records at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, winning 115 total medals, their highest since 1996. Team USA is currently at an unprecedented high – all of which came from hard work and support. Imagine what these athletes could do with even more of your support! Give today and see what Team USA is able to accomplish at future Games.
2) PyeongChang Is Quickly Approaching
Though it feels as though Rio was just yesterday, the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games are just around the corner. Our winter athletes need your help! They want to win gold and make America proud, and ice skates, bobsleds, hockey sticks, skis and curling stones don’t come cheap! Donate now to give them the best chance of success on the Olympic stage.
3) Olympic Training Centers Are Key To Success
There are three U.S. Olympic Training Centers across the country – in Chula Vista, California; Colorado Springs, Colorado; and Lake Placid, New York – all of which house Team USA athletes as they train to achieve their Olympic and Paralympic dreams. The training centers provide top-of-the-line strength and conditioning facilities, medical and nutritional resources, national team coaching and a strong community. Athletes live here free of charge, affording them the best chance to succeed. Donations not only provide resources in the gym, but also put a roof over their heads and food on their table.
4) The USOC Is Not Government Funded
The United States Olympic Committee is the only major national Olympic committee in the world that receives no government funding. The entire Team USA operation is run on sponsor support and the generous donations from fans and supporters. With no government money coming in to propel athletes to new heights, donors become the lifeblood of the organization.
5) You Can Be Part Of The Team Behind The Team
Have you always wanted to be a part of Team USA? Have you envisioned yourself standing on the podium with a medal around your neck as the national anthem plays? Well, here’s your opportunity! If you donate to Team USA, you will become part of the team behind the team and have a hand in enabling the athletes’ successes. Your donations will contribute to their training, education and recovery, making each medal won part yours as well.
6) Help Bring The Games Back To The U.S. With LA 2024
In 2024, the United States has the chance to host its first Olympic and Paralympic Games since 2002. The fate of the Los Angeles 2024 bid will be determined in September 2017, and it needs all the support it can get in the meantime! If you’re excited about this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, check out la24.org and follow LA2024 on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.
7) Your Support Benefits You As Well
Think giving to Team USA just means writing a check? Think again! There are countless ways to give, many of which give you tangible benefits. Head on over to TeamUSAShop.com; if you make a purchase, you’re supporting Team USA while getting some sweet gear. If you check out TeamUSA.org, your clicks are benefitting Team USA while you’re staying up to date on all the latest Team USA news and learning about athletes' inspiring stories. Do you follow Team USA on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook? You’re showing your support with the added bonus of seeing some awesome GIFs. It’s a win-win!
8) Team USA Can’t Do It Without You
It’s true! None of the medals won, world records broken or memories created would be possible without you, the Team USA fans and supporters. So give today (your donation will be matched!) and help create more incredible memories to last a lifetime.