Press Release - October 2017

Chris Archer's "Strikeout Challenge" Results In A $20,350 Check Presented To Nonprofit

Crown Automotive Group, the Rays Baseball Foundation, and Rays starting pitcher Chris Archer presented a $20,350 check to local nonprofit Starting Right, Now shortly before the Rays game on Friday, September 29^th, 2017.

Starting Right, Now is a nonprofit organization that combats homelessness for youth through providing a stable home, obtaining employment, one-on-one mentoring, teaching financial literacy, life skills education, and promoting educational achievement.

Following a season-long effort to raise funds and awareness for teen homelessness in the area, Archer, the Rays, and Crown each donated $25 for every Archer strikeout, bringing the total per "K" to $75.

Crown Automotive Group dealership President Jim Myers, Chris Archer, and President of Baseball Operations Matt Silverman presented the $20,350 "Strikeout Challenge" check to Vicki Sokolik, Founderand Executive Director of nonprofit Starting Right, Now.

"These are the type of events we love to do at Crown. It's always fun to engage with the community and partner with the Rays for a great cause. Archer is a great role model for our teens and we're proud to contribute in such a positive way" said Jim Myers.

Archer started the "Strikeout Challenge" at the beginning of the season in an effort to help end teen homelessness. The Rays Baseball Foundation agreed to match Archer's $25 donation every time the pitcher recorded a strikeout. Crown Automotive Group then joined in support by pledging an additional $25 per strikeout, bringing the total per strikeout to $75. Rays fans donated an additional $2,125 to the total amount presented.

Over the last 40 years, Crown Automotive Group has grown into one of the largest privately owned dealership groups in the nation with stores in Florida, Ohio, and Tennessee. Visit one of our auto dealerships today!