Published: July 24, 2008 11:48 pm         

Dungy more than happy to continue tradition of working with United Way of the Wabash Valley

TERRE HAUTE — Indianapolis Colts Head Coach Tony Dungy glided across the Phil Brown Field grass wearing a grin from ear to ear as he prepared to embark on what he called a “tradition.”

United Way of the Wabash Valley officials and four local children joined Dungy at the 50-yard line of the football field at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology to film a 30-second public service announcement, asking for donations to the United Way. This year’s taping of the commercial, which will be broadcast nationally, was the fifth for Dungy, who is a public spokesman for several charitable organizations.

Gary Morris and Marla De-Hart, United Way co-chairmen, joined Dungy in the commercial to solicit donations. The spot ended with the four children screaming, “Go Colts!” in unison.

The segment was shot as part of a long-standing relationship between the United Way and the National Football League. The partnership began in 1973 to “increase public awareness of social service issues facing the country,” according to the United Way Web site.

Troy Fears, United Way executive director, believes Dungy’s presence demonstrates his dedication to the agency.

“We know there are so many organizations and businesses that are pulling at his time,” Fears said. “For him to be willing to give up his time to the United Way really means a lot to us, and also speaks volumes to him and how important he feels the United Way is – not just locally, but nationally.”

Dungy did much more than shake hands and share face-time with patrons at Rose-Hulman; he signed virtually everything put in front of him and took countless photos with United Way officials. He also posed with the kids from the commercial and signed their United Way T-shirts, before giving them autographed copies of his children’s book “You Can Do It!”

Fears isn’t sure if his agency’s campaign can do as well as it has in years past. It is seeking donations during an economically desperate time. A lot of work will go into the not-for-profit agency reaching its campaign goal of $2 million, Fears said.

Dungy acknowledged the economic hardships, but said he hopes donations don’t slow down.

“Everyone has it tougher,” he said, “so there are more needs in an economy like this. And that’s why we’re trying to encourage people to dig down and continue to do what they’ve done in the past, which is help families.”

The Colts may be providing for families in their own right by holding their training camp in Terre Haute. Local hotels, restaurants and many other businesses benefit from the traffic that comes through the city during the team’s five-week camp. The addition to the local economy also is a plus for the Colts, Dungy said.

“That’s an added benefit,” he said, referring to the economic boon Terre Haute receives when the Colts are in town. “We love coming out here because it’s a great atmosphere to practice and get our work in. But when you know that you’re bringing in income for the community and you’re doing things to help out, that just makes it that much more special.”

Fears said Dungy’s involvement has surpassed the United Way’s expectations.

“He’s gone above and beyond in the last five years,” Fears said. “To give up his time and help us out – we have nothing but good things to say about the Indianapolis Colts coming to town.”

After signing footballs, autographing T-shirts, and taking pictures with just about everyone, Dungy jogged through the grass once more – with just as much grace as he had shown the camera and countless fans.

DeAntae Prince can be reached at (812)231-4214 or deantae.prince@tribstar.com.