A family story spurred the Jung family of north Raleigh to launch a nonprofit that's making a big difference for youth sports players across the country and around the world. In less than four years,
DonateSport.org has provided hundreds of thousands of dollars in items to kids in need.
I checked in with mom Georgette Jung to learn more about what they're working on. Here's a Q&A.
Go Ask Mom: How did DonateSport.org get its start? What was the aha moment?
Georgette Jung: DonateSport.org was born October 2016. Our story begins with my mother-in-law Emily, who was raised in an orphanage in Swidwin, Poland. She shared truly sad stories from when she lived there until the age of 16. She was only given a couple of articles of clothes and one pair shoes each year. This was the highlight of her year and the hundreds of other children in the orphanage.
Sadly, this is not an isolated situation, millions of kids suffer similar poverty in the U.S. and around the world. This gave us idea of starting our own charity to try and make a difference and help. Everyone has used sports clothing and equipment in their closet that is going unused and can be repurposed for children around the world right now. Imagine how great it would be to put a smile on a child’s face and a shirt on their back to make them feel good about themselves and inspire them to play a sport.
GAM: This is a family affair. How is the entire family involved?
GJ: Our three children play a huge part with our non-profit charity. Andrew, 15, is the Brand Ambassador, he loves spreading the word about our mission through media interviews and to the local community. Jocelyn, 14, currently assists with inventory management, social media creation and is our “in-house” professional photographer. Jackson, 11, is in charge of helping to collect donated items in our permanent bins at several sports center and schools.
GAM: What have you accomplished so far?
GJ: In just three short years, DonateSport.org has collected and distributed over $800,000 worth of sport equipment and clothing to those in 23 states and 20+ countries. All out of their home in north Raleigh.
GAM: How can people help your efforts?
GJ: Are your closets filled with your kids' last year‘s team jerseys? Consider donating them to our charity. We are accepting used and new sport attire and equipment for most sports. You can also
donate funds to our charity to help cover shipping costs. We are a non-profit 501c3 corporation with 100% of donations used for charity.
GAM: What are your hopes for the future of DonateSport.org?
GJ: We will continue our mission to help as many children as we can to bring hope, inspiration, self worth, and most of all smiles to them.
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