Nike Donations Hit $34 million

During its most recent fiscal year, Nike Inc. contributed $34 million to various programs, causes, and not-for-profit organizations. Nearly half that amount consisted of gifts in kind as a result of the company's higher than normal product inventory levels. Nike's donations included $5 million to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, $3 million to 100 Black Men of America, and $300,000 to Let us Play, a campaign that has helped build playgrounds in 10 cities across the U.S. "Self-esteem, community development, and opportunity for the disadvantaged are key elements sought in Nike partnerships and funding programs," says Maria Eitel, Nike vice president for corporate responsibility. "We believe there are strong programs everywhere that need support to help kids. Through building partnerships with programs which reach people who need it most, we hope to contribute to communities."