Jones to head charity group
By Ferd Lewis
Advertiser Staff Writer
University of Hawai'i football coach June Jones has begun a nonprofit, tax-exempt foundation, "the June Jones Foundation."
The foundation's Web site, www.junejonesfoundation.org, says it is, "dedicated to improving the quality of life for needy families of children with life-threatening illnesses as well as other charitable causes."
Jones
The foundation's first event, the June Jones Foundation 5K Run & Walk, is scheduled for Aug. 28 at Les Murakami Stadium as a benefit for HUGS (Help, Understanding & Group Support for Hawai'i's seriously ill children and their families). A golf tournament is planned for June 19-20, 2005 at Hokuli'a Golf Course on the Big Island.
Jones, who became the highest-paid state employee when he signed a contract for $800,016 a season last year, said he and some individuals began raising money for the foundation with a kickoff event last week.
WHAT: Nonprofit foundation to improve the quality of life for needy families of children with life-threatening illnesses as well as other charitable causes Web site: www.junejonesfoundation.org
Jones said the foundation, "is something (agent Leigh) Steinberg and I have talked about since I came here but didn't really get around to (right away)."
JUNE JONES FOUNDATION
The foundation is operated by Coaching Charities, a New Mexico-based management company that administers foundations for several other coaches, including Fisher DeBerry of the Air Force Academy.
Jones is chairman of the five-member board of directors that oversees his foundation.
Jones said he chose HUGS as the first recipient, "having been through a cancer situation in the family, the approach and the way parents and families needs (were met), it was a very touching organization."
Jones said while some contributions to the foundation will come from out of state, he expects the benefits to be distributed in Hawai'i. "A lot of people have been stepping up to help out," Jones said.
Reach Ferd Lewis at flewis@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8044.