Waterboys Initiative: NFL Players Bring Clean Water Projects to East Africa, Supported by Sponsors Including Jim Beam

    ST. LOUIS, MO, December 11, 2015 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The Waterboys Initiative, a signature program of The Chris Long Foundation focusing NFL players on the clean water crisis in Africa, officially announced a sponsorship with the world's leading Bourbon maker, Jim Beam. Jim Beam is part of Beam Suntory, the world's third largest premium spirits company.

"Since our beginning in 1795, Jim Beam Bourbon has understood how critical clean water is - it's foundational to the quality of our product and part of what makes Jim Beam world-class. We also recognize the role water plays in creating a higher quality of life," said Jay Kreikemeier, State Manager Missouri Beam Suntory. "We're delighted to support the Waterboys Initiative along with leaders like St. Louis Rams' Chris Long - and players from across the NFL - to bring the basic human dignity of clean water to communities in East Africa."

The Waterboys Initiative unites NFL fans and stars to fund community clean water projects in East Africa. Its goal is to fund 32 projects in water barren communities in desperate need. Each project will represent an NFL team and support a community of 5000 people. Rams defensive end Chris Long was inspired to launch the effort after climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2013; he serves as Chairman of the initiative. Completed at a total cost of $45,000, each sustainable project features solar power and is planned and created with strong community engagement.

Beginning immediately, branded Jim Beam polls about the product and its long-standing commitment to clean water, will raise awareness for clean water among consumers of legal drinking age. Content will appear on a variety of sports media sources through mid-February. Jim Beam will also generate additional support through private events.

"We are thrilled to have the support of Jim Beam," said Long. "When I began this project, I envisioned fans and corporate supporters joining efforts to change as many lives as possible. To have Jim Beam, a leader in their field and a symbol of American quality, choose to make this commitment to clean water and Waterboys shows the power of what we can accomplish for those in need."

For more information about Jim Beam, connect with them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/JimBeam), Twitter (@jimbeam) or visit http://www.jimbeam.com.

For more information about the Waterboys Initiative, connect with them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Waterboysorg), Twitter (@waterboys_org) or learn more/donate at www.waterboys.org

About Waterboys:
Waterboys got its start during a 2013 trip by Long to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. Long was struck by the beauty of Tanzania and the vibrancy of its people, but also witnessed great suffering due to a lack of clean water. While in Tanzania, Long met Doug Pitt, Goodwill Ambassador for Tanzania, and John Bongiorno, President of the non-profit WorldServe International and was further educated on the needs and available solutions to the clean water crisis.

Returning home, Long began to envision a pathway to champion the need for clean water in East Africa and engage other NFL players in the cause. In 2015, Long created the Waterboys Initiative, selecting WorldServe International as its benefiting charity. Waterboys will work with WorldServe International to build wells to provide life-giving water and all that comes from it - the opportunity for education, good health, and economic stability. There are currently 22 "Waterboys," including Long, on 21 teams that are committed to the effort; see a complete list at committed "Waterboys" at www.waterboys.or/waterboys_profiles.

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