It was a ‘no-brainer’…the chance to represent my church, the United Methodist Church, help a great cause, Nothing But Nets, and attend the biggest party of the year, the NBA All-Star Jam Session in Las Vegas. I responded immediately and received my marching orders and my schedule.
I wanted to volunteer for this event for several reasons. Many people don’t associate Christians with big-name sports and fun, yet we are the most joyful people I know, due to the hope that is within us. I thought the association with the NBA, the UN Foundation and Sports Illustrated was a good vehicle to promote the type of global good work that our church does. And I thought the Jam Session would be fertile ground for fund raising. Okay, and I thought it would be a lot of fun! So I recruited some pals and off we went!
I was right on all counts. The event was incredible. There was pulsating music, eye-popping colors, non-stop events, big name athletes encouraging kids to read and achieve. People were anxious to see and be seen. In the midst of all this, people would stop and smile and listen to our story. And more than a few opened their hearts and their wallets to help our cause.
I was impressed by what each of the partners brought to the cause, and I hope the world will bear witness to the way business, sports, government, and faith-based organizations can work together when they don’t worry who gets the credit. Nothing But Nets is a simple way to save lives, and a simple way to spread love and care, and I for one hope it is successful to the point that someday soon it will not be necessary to fight malaria any more.
Phyllis Murray
FaithSprings United Methodist Church
Las Vegas, Nevada
