Champions Volunteer Foundation Raises Nearly $45,000 at 2018 BNP Paribas Open

The Champions Volunteer Foundation – the primary beneficiary of the BNP Paribas Open – raised nearly $45,000 at the 2018 tournament through its annual silent auction, which included memorable experiences such as an opening match coin toss in Stadium 1 at Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

The Foundation represents a diverse group of people who are committed to donating their time to raise funds for charitable purposes. In addition to raising money for charitable organizations in the Coachella Valley, the Foundation also provides more than 1,200+ volunteers who allow the BNP Paribas Open to operate flawlessly day in and day out.

Through a grant application process, the Champions Volunteer Foundation redistributes funds to the local community through other non-profit organizations that support youth, recreational, educational and well-care programs. The foundation has raised funds for local community partners such as Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Desert, the Family YMCA of the Desert, and the Boys and Girls Club of the Coachella Valley. Since its inception in 2002, the Champions Volunteer Foundation has donated more than $1.65 million to over 45 local non-profits.

“We are so excited to be involved in the Coachella Valley community year-after-year and believe it is an important part of our mission,” said Chairman Steve Birdwell. “We are proud that the efforts of our Foundation make a meaningful impact on our partners and their ability to continue thriving in their philanthropic activities.”

Throughout the tournament each year, the Foundation benefits from various initiatives, including a designated evening session in which a percentage of ticket revenue is donated directly to the foundation. In 2018, the Foundation was one of nine selected charitable groups to receive a grant from the ATP ACES for Charity program. The program, which launched in 2011, is responsible for giving back to communities in which ATP World Tour events are played, as well as recognizing and supporting tournament, player and alumni charitable initiatives.