Nevada Benefits Foundation and G.I. Joe's team up to raise over $10,000 to benefit local troops and their families

WILSONVILLE, Ore., June 30 -- Phil Randazzo, Founder of the Nevada Benefits Foundation, and Shannon Burley, Director of Advertising and Marketing for G.I. Joe's Sports & Auto Stores, today announced that over $10,000 has been raised through the sale of Defending Freedom wristbands to benefit soldiers stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington.

The wristbands were donated by the Foundation and sold at each of the 23 G.I. Joe's store locations in Oregon and Washington, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the troops and their families.

"When I approached G.I. Joe's there was no hesitation on their part. The immediately asked how they could help, not 'what's in it for them.' That's when I knew they truly supported our troops and wanted to help," said Randazzo.

Burley added, "We know our troops and their families are making great sacrifices for our country, and we're proud to help them in any way we can. This has been one of the most rewarding and satisfying projects we've ever been involved in."

To date the Nevada Benefits Foundation has sold or donated over 580,000 Defending Freedom wristbands nationwide, and donated over $280,000 to various military charities. With the help of partners like G.I. Joes, the wristband is the second most popular ever, after Lance Armstrong's Live Strong yellow band.

A check presentation ceremony is scheduled for 2:00 PM Friday, July 1, at the Lakewood, Washington G.I. Joe's store.

G.I. Joe's is a closely held retail chain of 23 full-line sports and auto stores in Oregon and Washington. The company specializes in sporting goods, automotive, active outdoor clothing and footwear.

G.I. Joe's also operates a full-service online retail site at www.gijoes.com.