Sports Illustrated Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Community Outreach Program

Strategic Insights -

Sports Illustrated is marking its 50th anniversary by launching a community outreach program designed to enhance the quality of sports in America's communities. As part of the effort, the magazine is offering a six-month subscription to SI or Sports Illustrated For Kids for just $10, with 100% of the subscription revenue donated to the subscriber's local Y. This initiative is part of SI's yearlong 50th Anniversary celebration, which includes a special editorial section in the March 8 issue of SI featuring a six-page profile on Alaska, including a guest essay by Anchorage native Trajan Langdon.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sports Illustrated is offering a six-month subscription to SI or Sports Illustrated For Kids for just $10, with 100% of the subscription revenue donated to the subscriber's local Y.
  • The initiative is part of SI's yearlong 50th Anniversary celebration, "America's Sports Illustrated: 50 Years, 50 States, 50 Sports."
  • The March 8 issue of SI features a special 50th Anniversary editorial section highlighting Alaska with a six-page feature on the state, including a profile on the tradition of the Iditarod and a guest essay by Anchorage native Trajan Langdon.
  • A six-page state-specific feature will be included in the magazine on a weekly basis for 50 weeks through July 2004, celebrating one of the 50 United States and identifying a sport or sporting event unique to that state.
  • Each section will feature an accompanying essay by a well-known native or SI writer from the state, and a wide range of facts, figures, and photographs highlighting the most memorable moments and personalities that have defined that state's sports landscape.
  • SI's 50th Anniversary program includes editorial coverage in the magazine and online, a community sports outreach campaign with YMCA of the USA and National Recreation and Park Association.
  • The Toyota Presents Sports Illustrated's 50th Anniversary Tour will travel to unique sports events and festivals in cities and towns throughout the country.

Statistics:

  • 100% of the subscription revenue from Sports Illustrated's 50th Anniversary program will be donated to the subscriber's local Y.
  • 2,540 YMCAs are collectively the nation's largest not-for-profit community service organization and charity.
  • 18.9 million people of all faiths, races, ages, and incomes are served by the YMCAs, including 9.3 million children.
  • The YMCAs are the largest providers of child care.
  • Basketball, volleyball, and racquetball were all invented at American YMCAs, which were also pioneers in modern aquatics.

Sources:

  • [Sports Illustrated press release, March 3, 2004]
  • [YMCA of the USA website]
  • [Toyota Presents Sports Illustrated's 50th Anniversary Tour website]