By Davide Grasso
 
In keeping with Nike’s reputation as a socially responsible corporate citizen, the company channels considerable resources toward a number of philanthropic projects that target underserved and economically unstable communities across the globe. Recognizing that we all possess potential for greatness, Nike’s leadership team came together in 2004 to establish the Nike Foundation, a catalyst for change that has deeply impacted many lives in an actionable and meaningful capacity.
 
Investing in the greater good with a focus on long-term results, the Nike Foundation is spearheading a worldwide movement called the Girl Effect in collaboration with the United Nations Foundation, the Coalition for Adolescent Girls, and the NoVo Foundation. Launched on behalf of the 250 million young women presently living in poverty, the Girl Effect aims to eradicate societal ills such as teen pregnancy, child marriage, and HIV/AIDS through education and individualized outreach. A grassroots effort that also advocates for improved healthcare and viable career opportunities, the Girl Effect partners with an eclectic volunteer base to raise awareness of the difficulties economically challenged young women face while concurrently pushing for change on a large scale. By funding programs in underserved regions that encourage girls to pursue their dreams and realize their personal potential, the Nike Foundation’s Girl Effect initiative is transforming our world for the better, one young lady at time. Visit www.girleffect.org to learn how you can get involved. 
 
About the Author: 
Born and raised in Turin, Italy, Davide Grasso has spent the past 20 years supervising advertising and marketing efforts across all six of Nike’s global regions and sports divisions. Bringing a comprehensive background in fashion and high-end apparel to his current role as the company’s Chief Marketing Officer, Grasso is recognized as a top talent in his field and stands apart as a key contributor to many of Nike’s most important campaigns including the launch of Nike Free, Presto, and Alpha, as well as “Write the Future,” Beijing 2008, and 2012’s worldwide football initiative. A devoted father and husband, he lives and works in Portland, Oregon.