The Magic Volunteer Program (MVP) contributed 5,421 hours of community service for the 2008-09 Magic season (July 1, 2008 – June 30, 2009) surpassing the goal of 5,000 hours as an organization for the second straight year. More than 220 employees (full time, part time and interns) participated in numerous events throughout the year with a large focus on the Parramore area in downtown Orlando.
The events included reading and learning center renovations, KaBoom! playground build, MLK Jr. day of service, Blessings in a Backpack, Thanksgiving at the Coalition for the Homeless, Feed the Children, Orlando Magic Youth Fund (OMYF) Golf Tournament and Gala, Teach-In 2008, UNCF Basketball Tournament, American Heart Walk, BETA Center Gala, A Gift for Teaching 10-Year Celebration among others.
MVP was developed to encourage Orlando Magic employees to get out and get involved in the community. The program began in July of 2006 with the goal of performing 2,000 hours of community service during the 2006-07 season; over 3,800 hours were tracked that first year. MVP is unique in that it allows employees to volunteer during work hours.
“The Orlando Magic is very committed to the Central Florida community and that starts at the top with our ownership group,” said Magic Chief Operating Officer Alex Martins. “The DeVos family wants to ensure that our team provides a positive, encouraging example through our coaches, players and employees. From the beginning that has been a priority for the franchise, to leave an indelible mark in our community through our charitable endeavors. The Magic Volunteer Program is an important part to achieving that goal.”
Through the program, employees are assisted with board placement in the community, opportunities to volunteer at all Magic sponsored community events, OMYF sponsored projects, while matching employees in a youth mentoring program.
“The Orlando Magic understands the responsibility we have to our community to not only entertain, but reciprocate all the support that is graciously given to us. What we do on the court is just as important as what we do off the court,” said Orlando Magic Vice President of Community Relations and Government Affairs Linda Landman-Gonzalez. “We are in a unique position to inspire and motivate and our hope is to do that through every child we touch. The Magic Volunteer Program allows us to reach our community through our employees.”
