Meet Austin
Be sure to check out Austin's website at www.austingutwein.com
In the spring of 2004, I watched a video that showed children who had lost their parents to AIDS. After watching the video, I realized these kids weren't any different from me except they were suffering. I felt God calling me to do something to help them.
I decided to shoot free throws and on World AIDS Day, 2004, I shot 2,057 free throws to represent the 2,057 kids who would be orphaned during my day at school. People sponsored me and we were able to raise almost $3,000. That year, the money was used to provide hope to 8 orphan children.
From that year forward, thousands of people have joined me in a basketball shoot-a-thon called Hoops of Hope. By doing something as simple as shooting free throws, Hoops of Hope participants have raised over $2.5 million. The children left behind by AIDS now have access to food, clothing, shelter, a new school, dormitories, a computer lab, two medical centers and the list goes on.
I believe anyone, no matter what their age or skill, can make a difference.
I hope you'll join us by participating or sponsoring a participant. It's an awesome event that will leave an impact not only on the lives of the kids we're helping, but on yours as well.
In Him,
Austin
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Over the past 7 years, Austin has spoken to hundreds of thousands of people on behalf of orphan children. His speaking itinerary includes stops at the United States Air Force Academy, Catalyst, Global Issues Summits in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa and more than 150 other events. Austin offers a message of hope as he relays stories and facts in an effort to raise awareness and encourage others to take their best shot and do something bigger than themselves.
Austin released his first book Take Your Best Shot in 2009 and will release his second book titled Live to Give in August, 2012.
If you're interested in having Austin speak to your group, please contact Anna Trent at [email protected]
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Austin's Bio
