“This year the message is simple. It’s all about the power of community,” said 3M Open Ambassador and Minnesota Vikings player Kyle Rudolph.
Kyle helped kick off 3M Open festivities with a drive-up food drive event at 3M Company’s global headquarters on June 30. More than 100 3Mers participated, while practicing social distancing measures, and amassed 2,653 pounds of food and donated items that were provided to VEAP, a local basic needs non-profit that has been helping individuals impacted by COVID-19.
3M Open Fund and tournament officials recently announced that the 2020 3M Open will focus its charitable efforts on COVID-19 and social justice initiatives.
The 3M Open has identified eight major charity partners for this year’s tournament: M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital, Greater Twin Cities United Way, VEAP, Urban Ventures, Lake Street Council, YWCA of Minneapolis, YWCA of St. Paul and the Science Museum of Minnesota.
“Despite not having fans in attendance, the 3M Open will remain a platform to give back and build more resilient communities,” said Denise Rutherford, 3M Company’s senior vice president of corporate affairs and president, 3M Open Fund. “We are excited to help bring professional sports back to Minnesota and showcase our vibrant culture and community.”
The 3M Open will also run a social media campaign designed to honor essential workers throughout the tournament. Participants are asked to recognize an essential worker in their life by posting a video to Twitter or Instagram and use the hashtag #3MOpen from July 8 through July 26. The 3M Open Fund will donate $3 for each post to three nonprofit organizations: VEAP, Greater Twin Cities United Way and M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital (up to a maximum total donation of $250,000).
Another way in which the tournament plans to showcase its community-themed message is by partnering with local artist Adam Turman to create a ‘Power of Community’ mural that will be featured during the TV broadcast of the tournament.
The tournament will take place on July 23-26 at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, MN, and will be conducted without spectators due to current guidelines related to COVID-19. However, fans around the world can watch tournament play on the Golf Channel and CBS throughout the week.
