geoffrey kirkman's blog

Tonight is the official inauguration of the opening of two Computer Clubhouses in Panama, with the support of Mariano Rivera of the New York Yankees and the Intel Corporation.  The Sports for Development Foundation worked over the last two years to help make this happen, so I am very pleased to finally see the Clubhouses open and to know that the official festivities are happening tonight.  The official press release gives some more details about the program, Mariano’s involvement, and the background of Intel’s support. 

I am most excited by the nature of this collaboration — bringing a major sports figure, a large IT multinational, and an established and reputable not-for-profit organization together to accomplish tangible, positive goals for youth.  I think this is a great model for other international development activities, and channels important synergies and complementary skills and core competencies to bear on the pressing problem of the lack of opportunity for most Panamanian kids.  The truly unique and special part of this collaboration, however, has been Mariano Rivera.  It would not have been possible without Mariano’s tremendous dedication to helping others, his desire to give back to his country, and of course his unbridled enthusiasm and focus.