Johnson & Johnson Launches “Champions of Care” Program in the U.S as Part of 2014 FIFA World Cup Sponsorship

Johnson & Johnson, the Official Healthcare Sponsor of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, announced the launch of the Champions of Care program in the United States to shine a spotlight on people who go above and beyond to do extraordinary things in caring for others.  Developed by Johnson & Johnson in support of its 2014 FIFA World Cup™ sponsorship, the Champions of Care program invites individuals across the country to celebrate the most caring people in their lives.

Based on the Johnson & Johnson philosophy that one act of care can inspire another and ultimately, create a more caring world, the program invites individuals to visit www.careinspirescare.com beginning today through April 4 to share their own Champions’ stories and nominate them as Champions of Care. From these stories, six finalists will be selected and profiled. Public voting will occur from May 5-25 to select the grand prize winner who will attend the 2014 FIFA World Cup™ final match in Rio de Janeiro on July 13.

“As the world comes together this summer for the FIFA World Cup, Johnson & Johnson will honor those who selflessly care for others each and every day,” said Holly Means, Vice President, Corporate Equity Strategy and Sponsorships, Johnson & Johnson. “Through Champions of Care we will share inspiring stories and recognize those who make a real difference in their communities and the lives of many around the world.”

Karla Martinez, co-host of Univision’s Despierta America, was named ambassador for the Champions of Care program in the US and helped launch the program at a primary school near Miami. Martinez and youngsters from the South Hialeah Elementary School became the first Champions of Care ambassadors in the US, packing book bags in support of Save the Children’s “Early Steps to School Success” program. The books will be donated to children in need across the United States. Over the next four months leading up to the 2014 FIFA World Cup™, Martinez will be traveling with Johnson & Johnson to other markets across the country to participate in events that celebrate and encourage simple acts of care in our everyday lives.

“As a wife, mother and member of my local community, I am proud to partner with Johnson & Johnson on the Champions of Care program to show that even a small act of care can make a difference in people’s lives and can inspire others to do the same,” said Ms. Martinez. “My personal Champion of Care is my grandmother, who has put other people before herself throughout her life. Driven by her example, today I want to inspire others to perform more acts of care.”