SC Athletic Dept. Receives $5 Million Gift for Community Service Program

<p>The USC Athletic Department has received a $5 million gift from the Otis Booth Foundation to endow the community service program. In the last three years student athletes have volunteered with Swim with Mike, Marathon for Kids, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, South Central Community Center, Best Buddies and Skid Row shelters. They have also donated hours to neighborhood elementary schools.</p>

<p>The Booth endowment will establish the Matt Barkley Community Service Coordinator position. The coordinator will manage, implement and enhance the program and provide more opportunities for student athletes to serve the surrounding community.</p>

<p>Palmer Murray, vice president and trustee of the Booth Foundation remarked, "The Otis Booth Foundation is proud to support USC student athletes in their efforts to mentor and engage elementary school children in their neighboring community. Illustrating the unique combination of outstanding academic and athletic achievement, we believe these student athletes, serving as role models, can have a meaningful impact on the lives of many children."</p>

<p>These are highlights from an article on March 25th, 2013 by Alexandra Bitterlin.</p>