FanDuel Donates $1M to UNCF for Ohio HBCU Students
FanDuel's Continued Support for Education
In a generous act of philanthropy, FanDuel has announced a $1 million donation to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), marking the third consecutive year that the company has supported the education of students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This latest contribution underscores FanDuel's commitment to education and community engagement, particularly within Ohio, where the donation will benefit students at ten HBCUs.Beneficiaries Across Ohio
The funds from FanDuel are earmarked to support various student needs at ten institutions in Ohio, including Case Western University, Central State University, Chamberlain University, Franklin University, Herzing University-Akron, Ohio State University-Newark Campus, Union Institute & University, Ursuline College, Wilberforce University, and University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash College. Each college is set to receive a portion of the funds, which will be allocated to help with technology acquisition, housing, food security, and tuition costs.Commemorating a Milestone
This donation comes as FanDuel celebrates a significant milestone — one year of mobile sports betting in Ohio. The company's decision to mark this occasion by giving back to the community demonstrates a strong corporate social responsibility ethos, aligning business success with social progress.A Partnership with Long-term Benefits
Beyond the immediate financial assistance, FanDuel is investing in the future workforce by offering internship opportunities to students from these HBCUs. This initiative not only provides practical work experience for students but also opens doors for diverse talent to join the sports tech industry, which historically has seen lower representation from minority groups.Voices of Appreciation and Commitment
Maurice E. Jenkins, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of UNCF, expressed gratitude and enthusiasm for the ongoing partnership: "We look forward to continuing our partnership; students benefit so much from internship opportunities." These internships are pivotal in equipping students with the skills and experience necessary to excel in their chosen fields.
Echoing this sentiment, Christian Genetski, president of FanDuel, reflected on the company's operations in Ohio and its dedication to supporting educational initiatives: "As we reflect on our first year of operation in Ohio, we’re proud to continue our partnership with UNCF to support the HBCU community in the state and look forward to supporting hard-working students at institutions across Ohio."Impact on Students and Communities
FanDuel's contributions to UNCF and the HBCU community have a far-reaching impact, not just on the students who directly benefit from the financial aid and internships but also on the broader communities these institutions serve. By alleviating some of the financial burdens associated with higher education, FanDuel is helping to ensure that more students can access and complete their studies, leading to increased opportunities for personal growth and professional development.
Moreover, by actively recruiting interns from HBCUs, FanDuel is taking a hands-on approach to fostering diversity and inclusion within its workforce. This strategy benefits both the company and the students, creating a more dynamic and representative industry while providing young professionals with invaluable insights into the world of sports technology.Conclusion
FanDuel's sustained support for the UNCF and HBCUs exemplifies the potential for corporate entities to drive positive change through strategic partnerships and charitable initiatives. As the company continues to grow and expand its operations, its commitment to education and diversity remains a shining example of how businesses can effectively contribute to societal advancement. With each donation and internship offered, FanDuel is not only investing in individual students but also in the future leaders who will shape our communities and industries for years to come.