Celestine Jeffreys, Chief of Staff, 920-448-3006; celestineje@greenbaywi.gov
Therese Woelfel, Community Foundation, 920-432-0800; theresewoelfel@ggbcf.org
Green Bay and Seattle Mayors Participate in Win-Win Playoff Challenge
(GREEN BAY, WI) In celebration of the Green Bay Packers’ upcoming divisional playoff game with the Seattle Seahawks, Mayor Eric Genrich has issued a unique challenge to Mayor Jenny Durkan of Seattle called the “Win-Win Playoff Challenge,” which she has accepted.
Mayor Genrich and Dennis Buehler, President of the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation, created this fresh take on traditional mayoral wagers. The Win-Win Challenge encourages both playoff communities to give back through service, to highlight a community organization and effort.
Mayor Genrich and Mayor Durkan have selected local volunteer opportunities as the “win-win challenge” issue. Following the outcome of the January 12th game, City of Green Bay and Community Foundation employees will volunteer at Paul’s Pantry. Mayor Durkan, along with her staff and community members, will similarly volunteer as part of the MLK Day of Service. In the spirit of friendly competition, both cities’ mayors and volunteers will wear the winning team’s colors.
Mayor Genrich and Mayor Durkan will also exchange gifts, highlighting businesses in each community. In the unlikely event Seattle wins Sunday’s game, Mayor Genrich will send beer from Stillmank Brewing, cheese curds from Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese, and coffee from La Java Roasting House to Mayor Durkan.
“Throughout the playoffs, we’ll issue Win-Win Playoff Challenges to the opposing communities, all the way to the Super Bowl,” said Mayor Genrich. “No pressure, Packers, but we want to see Green Bay’s generous spirit and our favorite colors displayed across the country this post-season!”
The Win-Win Challenge leverages the NFL’s influence to highlight local needs and efforts. Each playoff city will benefit by bringing attention to community concerns, and garnering volunteer time and talent, making it a “win-win” for everyone.
Paul’s Pantry Executive Director Craig Robbins said, “What a fun way for our community to support those in need. We’re excited to be part of the Challenge.”
According to Buehler, the bet “Lambeau Leaps” over obstacles and brings attention to the great work being done by nonprofits across our country. “Even in competition, our communities can come together in support of worthwhile initiatives and make a difference,” said Buehler. “Whether volunteering time and talent or offering a donation of any amount, it takes each of us to support a thriving community.”
As avid fans, both Mayor Genrich and Buehler hope the Green Bay Packers win the Super Bowl, and score wins for the community all along the way.
For more information about food insecurity in the Green Bay area, see a recent WisCONTEXT article about the problem and the role food pantries play in addressing it. For those interested in donating or volunteering at Paul’s Pantry, please visit www.PaulsPantry.org.
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