FCBARCELONA.CAT

04.08.2009 10:38

An example to follow

David Saura (special correspondent)

FC Barcelona’s solidarity work through the Fundació, particularly their work with UNICEF, was honoured during an institutional event organised by the Seattle Sounders as part of the celebration of Barca’s US Tour.

Following the recognition given to the club’s social work in LA , this time it was the turn of Seattle to praise Barcelona’s solidarity. The Frank Gehry designed Experience Music Project (EMP), a building very similar to the Guggenheim he built in Bilbao, was the scene for the event organised by the Sounders.

Prise for Barca

Joe Roth, one of the owners of Seattle Sounders, Don Garber, the MSL commissioner and Caryl Stern, President of UNICEF in USA all praised the club’s social work, with phrases such as : “we are proud of your collaboration”, “ the best club in the world” and what a great vision you have had” were heard at the event before Joan Laporta gave his own speech.

Three intensive years’ work

Barca’s President explained the evolution of Barca’s work with UNICEF, which involves the club giving 0.7% of their annual budget to achieving the UN’s Millenium Objectives. Laporta spoke with feeling about the visit to Swaziland as part of the fight against AIDS, insisting: “there is a before and after to that shocking visit”.

Caryl Stern reminded her audience that the aim for 2015 was to halt and reduce the spread of VHI/AIDS and stressed the importance of Barca in achieving that aim: “any country you visit, the kids are kicking a ball around and the first thing they do is play football”, commented the UNICEF USA boss, as the Barca and Seattle squads listened intently to her message.