When USA Olympian Annie Lazor swam in the finals for the 200m Women’s Breaststroke in Tokyo this summer and won the Bronze medal, she was cheered on by friends and family, wearing specially designed t-shirts, at a watch party at the Woodside Athletic Club in Beverly Hills, Mich.
At Annie’s request proceeds from sales of the t-shirts, designed by her family’s close friend Meg Gordy, went to The Salvation Army because her father David, who passed away suddenly in April, always held the organization near to his heart and rang bells at kettles during Christmas, as his father had before him.
The Eastern Michigan Division (EMI) was not only thankful for this donation but honored to be part of a welcome home celebration hosted by George Matick Chevrolet. The Salvation Army’s presence was a welcome surprise to an elated Annie, who recognized the organization as she followed the parade’s police and fire engine escort down the streets to the Woodside Swim Club where she started swimming as a child. Not only did Annie raise even more funds during the event by signing swim caps for donations to The Salvation Army but she inspired a group of young swimmers with a speech and had Major Tim Meyer, EMI general secretary, share remarks, including an encouraging scripture.
“It was moving that at the pinnacle of her success Annie has compassion for others, a characteristic instilled by her father,” said Major Tim. “We are blessed to be recipients of that kind of love and compassion.”
