Verizon Wireless, Bradley University Basketball Team Connect For Domestic Violence Prevention

PEORIA, IL — Bradley University men's basketball team's prowess at the three-point line this season will pay dividends in the fight to curb domestic violence in central Illinois, thanks to a unique program by Verizon Wireless.

Verizon Wireless kicked off the season-long program, named "Protection is the Name of the Game," last November, committing $25 to domestic violence programs in Peoria and surrounding counties for each 3-point basket scored by the Braves during regular season games. By making 110 three-point field goals through their February 16 game against Drake University, the Braves raised, through Verizon Wireless' support, at least $2,750 for three domestic violence agencies based in Peoria, Bloomington and Canton.

"Protection is the Name of the Game" stems from Verizon Wireless' philanthropic venture, HopeLineSM, designed to support domestic violence initiatives on a regional and national basis, as well as the company's position as the official wireless provider of the Braves. WMBD Radio, Bradley's official voice for the Braves, assisted in promoting the joint program.

Representatives from Verizon Wireless and the Bradley University Athletic Department presented checks - each totaling $917 - to the three local domestic violence agencies on Feb. 23, during half-time of the team's final home game of the season.

Accepting the donations were: Sandra Rodlund, associate director for The Center for Prevention of Abuse; Martha Daly, executive director for Fulton-Mason Crisis Service; and Paula Dapkus, program director for Mid-Central Community Action, Inc.

"Verizon Wireless is pleased to have been able to expand our association with Bradley University to help fight domestic abuse in Peoria and central Illinois," said Scott Sylvester, Peoria store manager for Verizon Wireless, in presenting the checks. "We're thankful to Coach 'Mo' and the Braves for their dedication all season long. They worked hard to give us more than 100 3-point baskets!"

"Domestic violence is a very real threat to families across the nation," said Rodlund. "We're grateful to Verizon Wireless and Bradley University for helping us shed some light on this unwelcome behavior in central Illinois and, of course, for the generous donation we've received today. This contribution will benefit community members who need our help to rebuild their lives."

"The players were inspired by Verizon Wireless' program all season," said Dennis Kalina, assistant athletic director for external affairs at Bradley University. "Hopefully, our athletes and fans will take the message to heart and keep violence out of their lives."

Editor's Note:

For more information about domestic violence programs in Peoria and surrounding communities, call the following agencies via their business lines:

• In Peoria - call The Center for Prevention of Abuse at 309-691-0551 or 309-683-3790.
• In Bloomington - call Mid Central Community Action, Inc. at 309-829-0691.
• In Canton - call Fulton-Mason Crisis Service at business line 309-647-7487.

For more information about HopeLine, or Verizon Wireless' dedication to the issue of domestic violence, please call Carolyn A. Schamberger at 847-619-4282, email her at carolyn.schamberger1@verizonwireless.com or visit www.verizonwireless.com/hopeline.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless is the nation's leading provider of wireless communications and Internet services. The company has the largest nationwide wireless network and 29 million customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Reporters and editors can find more information on the Web at http://www.verizonwireless.com.

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