In the aftermath of a big disaster-natural or human made- that displaces and effects thousands, sometimes millions of people there is an initial reaction to help any way possible. There are lives that have been changed forever. These people just want to be consoled and be told that everything is going to be alright, even that might not be true. And professional sports and their athletes have the ability to be there for these people and help bring up their spirits. In the article “Sport and disaster relief: A content analysis” the authors discuss how pro sports aside from financial donations provide support through a myriad of ways. Obviously monetary gifts are nice and needed, especially in the wake of disaster. They “further assisted in providing needed resources for disaster victims through public service announcements and allow their stadiums to be used as a temporary shelter” (Inoue, Harvard 361) for the locals affected which almost seems to mean more than a financial gift. It’s also nice having the presence and support from a professional organization or individual athlete. They provide emotional support and can have a one on one conversation and bring a smile and love to the victims of these tragedies who might be struggling to cope with what is happening. Visits from athletes and teams following tragedy can help “build goodwill with its consumers” (364)-its fans. The interactions of professional athletic organizations not only puts their brand out there, but more likely than not its “consumers develop positive attitudes” (364) towards these teams and the athlete(s) they encountered. So it’s a win-win for everyone involved. And in general I just think it’s nice to see pro athletes out and about in the community and helping any way they can. It’s a reminder that they aren’t just athletes but also people.

Inoue, Yuhei; Harvard, T. Cody 2015. “Sport and disaster relief: a content analysis”. Emerald Group Publishing Limited. 24(3): 355-368. Accessed April 2nd, 2017.  doi: http://0-search.proquest.com.books.redlands.edu/docview/1690997682?accountid=14729