New York, NY, November 15, 2018 — Modelo, the beer brewed with The Fighting Spirit™ and enjoyed by millions of hard-working men and women, introduces the Modelo Fighting Chance Project dedicated to providing the support people need to achieve their full potential. The give back initiative, in partnership with the International Rescue Committee (IRC), aims to make a positive impact in the lives of Refugees, Immigrants and Americans in need providing them with the financial tools and support they need to achieve their vision of the American dream. This three-year commitment totals $1 million, which includes donations and other efforts.
In its first year, Modelo’s donation has already funded a new Financial Opportunity Center (FOC) in Dallas. Through educational programs and job assistance initiatives, the FOC helps IRC clients integrate into their communities while building a foundation for lasting economic independence and financial success. The grant has also sponsored new training for financial coaches in 10 other IRC offices – Phoenix, Atlanta, New York, Baltimore, Seattle, San Diego, Oakland, Los Angeles, Sacramento and Turlock, California – extending the partnership’s impact from coast to coast. Second- and third-year donations will be distributed strategically based on areas of greatest need.
Modelo has always been committed to honoring those with the Fighting Spirit – those who prove it doesn’t matter where you come from, it matters what you’re made of – by telling their inspiring stories through compelling and emotional advertising campaigns. Now, it is helping to enable and fuel The Fighting Spirit. Joining forces with nonprofits that promote economic empowerment, The Modelo Fighting Chance Project will focus on three key pillars: career development, financial stability and entrepreneurship. The IRC is the first nonprofit partnership forged through this initiative.
“Modelo consumers embody perseverance, grit and the fighting spirit to keep going in the face of adversity,” said Greg Gallagher, Vice President, Brand Marketing in the Constellation Brands Beer Division. “That same spirit lives within the IRC as they give people a fighting chance to succeed. We are proud to work with them toward our shared mission to give back to the people and communities who live the fighting spirit of our brand.”
“From reinvigorating local economies to adding to the cultural fabric of our cities and towns, refugees bring immense value to the communities they call home,” said Lauren Gray, senior director of institutional philanthropy and partnerships at the International Rescue Committee. “Now, more than ever before, it’s critical we build inclusive communities and ensure all individuals have the opportunity to reach their full potential. Partnerships, like the one with Modelo, reinforce that an investment in a refugee is one that ensures a stronger, healthier and more prosperous future for us all.”
Through a variety of programs including financial coaching, skill-building workshops, career coaching, business counseling and assistance earning industry-recognized credentials, the IRC gives people the resources they need to take control of their future.
"Our immigrant community in Dallas is part of what makes our city such a great place to live and work,” said Dallas Mayor, Mike Rawlings. “They help revitalize our city, drive our economy and contribute to our cultural and ideological diversity. The Modelo Fighting Chance Project’s partnership with the IRC is a key step toward efforts to integrate new residents into the city and our community. On behalf of the City of Dallas, we are appreciative of this investment, which I know will have real impact - today and into the future.”
To learn more about The Modelo Fighting Chance Project and its work with the IRC, visit www.Modelousa.com/FightingChance and follow the social conversation with #ModeloFightingChanceProject.