The important work of the Cowboys Community Foundation in improving employment, health and social outcomes for young North Queenslanders has received a generous $100,000 boost from the Newman’s Own Foundation and ambassador Johnathan Thurston.

JT was one of seven Australian sports stars invited by the Newman’s Own Foundation, founded by the late actor and philanthropist Paul Newman, to nominate an Australian charity to receive a $100,000 grant.

A long-term advocate for the Cowboys Community Foundation and its education-based programs, JT nominated the community-owned charity as his preferred recipient of the significant grant.

Spokesperson Jeff Reibel today accepted a cheque for $100,000 on behalf of the Cowboys Community Foundation.

“It is with pleasure that I accept this important contribution from the Newman’s Own Foundation and JT for the Cowboys Community Foundation,” Mr Reibel said.

“This grant will support long-term sustainability for the Foundation by enabling the development of professional expertise in key areas such as fundraising, individual giving and endowment.

“We are incredibly grateful to Robert and the Newman’s Own Foundation for their generosity, and to Johnathan for his ongoing commitment to the Foundation and our mission.”

In choosing Johnathan Thurston as a grant invitee, Newman’s Own Foundation President and CEO Robert Forrester said JT has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to giving back and empowering others, reflecting the values and mission of Paul Newman and Newman’s Own Foundation.

“While Paul Newman was best known as a movie star, his other great passions were racing car driving and philanthropy,” said Mr Forrester.

“Paul believed everyone has the power to make a difference and the Foundation is pleased to recognise Australian sports stars like Johnathan Thurston and his commitment to giving back and inspiring others to do the same.”

North Queensland Toyota Cowboys life member and four-time Dally M medallist Johnathan Thurston welcomed the opportunity to use his profile to continue to support the Cowboys’ charity arm.

“I chose the Cowboys Community Foundation as I have been part of their mission from the beginning to create a platform to influence positive social change for young people through education and empowerment,” Mr Thurston said.

“I’m especially aligned with the Foundation’s commitment to addressing the gaps that still exist between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians in education and employment parity.

“Through my sporting career I’ve had the opportunity to learn so much about the influence of sport and the impact it and its representatives can have on social change, and I’m honoured to be nominated by the Newman’s Own Foundation to make a difference.”

The Cowboys Community Foundation is ‘creating opportunities and inspiring futures’ through key programs – NRL Cowboys House, Try for 5! and Learn Earn Legend! – that focus on access, attendance, engagement and opportunity through the education journey.