USL Charlotte Independence

Independence Launches Campaign Effort with Folds of Honor for Inaugural Season at American Legion Memorial Stadium

Published on April 21, 2021 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Independence News Release


(CHARLOTTE, N.C.) - The Charlotte Independence announced today that they have entered into a strategic philanthropic partnership with Folds of Honor to raise scholarship funds for children of fallen or disabled military personnel, from the Charlotte region. The Independence will use various programs to raise needed funds and provide scholarships for kids that need a helping hand.

The marquee fundraising event will be a Military Appreciation Night presented by Famous Toastery (July 17 vs. New York Red Bulls II). The Jacks will wear specially designed jerseys for the first time at their new home-field, American Legion Memorial Stadium. The jerseys will be autographed by Independence players and auctioned to the public. The proceeds from the auction will be donated to Folds of Honor, who will work closely with the Independence to pick Charlotte region recipients of the scholarships.

"We're thrilled to partner with the Charlotte Independence," said Folds of Honor Executive Vice President for Development, Ben Leslie. "The history of their name and their new home field complement our objectives. We look forward to working with the Independence to select local applicants in need, so they can realize their educational dreams."

In addition to the auction, Famous Toastery will feature menu items, with an Independence and Folds of Honor theme, and will donate a portion of sales to the leading, nationally recognized foundation.

"We've enjoyed our affiliation with the Independence and Military Appreciation Night over the last couple of seasons," said Famous Toastery Chief Operating Officer, David Burgess. "We're excited to take this effort to the next level as the Independence take the field at American Legion Memorial Stadium."

The team will also use a special line of souvenir merchandise, donation canisters, and round-up opportunities for fans to join the campaign to help raise additional scholarship funds throughout the entire season.

In addition to the fundraising, Independence fans will have the chance to nominate their friend or family member who has or is serving in the U.S. military, to sit in four of the club's "Folds of Honor V.I.V" seats. The local "Very Important Veteran" and three guests will be able to enjoy the match and the views from incredible seats, for each Independence home match. Fans can nominate their Folds of Honor V.I.V. by sending their recommendation to veterans@queencitysc.com.

"Our mission is to make Charlotte a better place to live through sports," said Independence President and Chief Operating Officer, Tim Schuldt. "This effort is consistent with that and our community core value. Folds of Honor was chosen for their quality reputation, because the funds will stay local, and because they share the values of our organization."

The Independence will make the 2021 campaign its first season at the brand new American Legion Memorial Stadium. The $40 million entire rebuild of the historic venue which began last September is close to completion and is set to open a new chapter for the Jacks.

Located in Uptown Charlotte, the new venue will have a capacity of 10,500 including standing area, and the type of amenities that have become standard at new venues across the Championship in recent years. Among them, a first for the Independence, will be a full video scoreboard and views of the surrounding city skyline that will make for a memorable experience on game-nights and at other events.




United Soccer League Championship Stories from April 21, 2021


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