Now that Curtis is back in Cincinnati, his focus shifts to a cause closer to home. Curtis’ aunt was recently diagnosed with ALS, and his great aunt passed away from the disease in the late 90's. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, and patients in later stages of the disease may become totally paralyzed. The estimated out-of-pocket cost for caring for a person with ALS is around $250,000. The next chapter for The Pass Project now is to raise awareness of ALS, contribute to ALS research, and be a part of the ALS Walk in Cincinnati on September 16.

With that initiative in mind, The Pass Project is launching “The Community Kit”, and we will be helping the project by featuring the kits through the DI online store. The kit's design draws inspiration from the city’s flag as well as the city’s heritage, and will be launching with the intent to give back to the community. Stripes from Cincinnati’s city flag are featured boldly, and the Bavarian lozenge pattern we've come to associate with many things soccer in this city act as a secondary element. The ALS Association of Southern and Central Ohio Chapter logo is featured on the front of both kits, along with The Pass Project logo and motto. On the back the number 18 represents the year The Pass Project was founded, and the Die Innenstadt logo even makes an appearance under the number to show our partnership.