Funkenfruven

Volkswagen’s VIP program jazzes up Zo’s Summer Groove.

by Willie G.

For the past ten years, Alonzo Mourning’s celebrity basketball game and charity weekend have helped Miami’s underprivileged youth build both their self-esteem and chances for a better future. And with this year’s additional sponsorship from Volkswagen’s VIP program, “big kids” got to feel a little more important as well.

Inspired by his participation in a ’92 Magic Johnson-led event, Zo’s Summer Groove brings Miami’s A-list celebs and local corporations together for a weekend of sun, fun and philanthropy. “I knew when I got really established in a city, I wanted to do an event of this caliber for the kids,” says Mourning. “I wouldn’t be where I am without the help of others, and I hope that our actions here can inspire others to step up.”

Rising to the occasion was Volkswagen of America, whose VIP program allowed anyone with a valid license to take a no-pressure test drive in the latest models, as well as receive a free ticket to the game. Standing between the new Rabbit and the hard-top convertible Eos, VW marketing manager Kenyatta Bynoe explains, “Our VIP program is about showing off the latest cars, but it’s also to give those in urban communities a little something extra, without the intense sales pitch.”

As a true not-for-profit, Zo’s organization relies heavily on donations. To participate or contribute, visit www.amcharities.org.

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