International Justice Mission, Topgolf and Kershaws Launch “Drive for Freedom”
Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019, DALLAS, TEXAS — For the first time, Topgolf Entertainment Group and International Justice Mission (IJM), the largest international anti-slavery organization in the world, are partnering with MLB pitcher and three-time Cy Young award winner Clayton Kershaw and his wife Ellen to host “Drive for Freedom” at Topgolf Dallas. During the event, attendees will enjoy an evening of fun activities, learn how IJM is combating modern-day slavery as well as partake in friendly competition to fundraise on behalf of IJM. Additionally, the Kershaws will share about their firsthand experience traveling to visit the IJM Dominican Republic office and immersing themselves in the work of justice.
With over 40 million people held in slavery today, this partnership will be essential in raising awareness and urgent financial resources to fight this crime. With over 40 million people held in slavery today, this partnership will be essential in raising awareness and urgent financial resources to fight this crime. As of June 2019, IJM has rescued over 50,200 survivors and trained a combined almost 200,000 justice system officials, police, prosecutors, judges, social workers, church and community members to recognize and respond to violence.
IJM Founder and CEO Gary Haugen said, “Nothing happens just because we are aware of modern slavery, but nothing will ever happen until we are. IJM’s work is made possible because of generous supporters and partners like the Kershaws and Topgolf, and it is events like these that drive awareness that leads to real action.”
“We are excited that Topgolf can leverage our fun, family-oriented venue and organization to partner with IJM and the Kershaws to shine a light on such an important cause,” said Topgolf Entertainment Group CEO Dolf Berle. “We are hosting these events nationwide with the goal of reaching thousands of people in a new and different way, and we hope this will be the beginning of a long partnership with IJM.”
“Ellen and I have seen firsthand the desperation of girls trapped in sex trafficking in the Dominican Republic, but we have also witnessed the miraculous restoration and hope when provided aftercare services to live a life of dignity and freedom. So, it is great to be in my hometown while partnering with these two organizations as we encourage more people to join the fight against modern-day slavery,” said Clayton Kershaw, MLB pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
About International Justice Mission:
International Justice Mission is a global organization that protects people in poverty from violence. IJM partners with local authorities in 19 program offices in 11 countries to combat slavery, violence against women and children, and other forms of abuse against people who are poor. IJM works to rescue and restore victims, hold perpetrators accountable, and help strengthen public justice systems. Learn more at IJM.org.
About Topgolf Entertainment Group:
Topgolf Entertainment Group is a global sports and entertainment community that connects nearly 100 million fans in meaningful ways through the experiences we create, the innovation we champion and the good that we do. What began as a technology that enhanced the game of golf now encompasses a range of unmatched experiences where communities can discover common ground at brand expressions including Topgolf venues, Lounge by Topgolf, Toptracer, Toptracer Range, Topgolf Swing Suite, Topgolf Studios, Topgolf Live, World Golf Tour (WGT) by Topgolf and Driving for Good. In 2019, Topgolf Associates volunteered more than 15,000 hours to give back to the communities served. Additionally, Topgolf hosted over 3,500 charitable events at venues across the globe.
