Family and friends of former UNLV Rebel Girl and UNLV architectural student Lindsay Bennett have announced the establishment of the Lindsay Bennett Memorial.
Bennett – a lifelong Henderson resident and a graduate of Coronado High School – was killed in an automobile accident by an alleged drunk driver in April. She was 18-years-old.
The memorial, which is supported by the Henderson Community Foundation – a 501(c)(3) organization – will develop a multi-faceted educational and awareness program that will ensure current and future generations comprehend the privileges and consequences of responsible drinking and driving.
Funding will be primarily provided through a unique “LB3” Program in association with the UNLV men’s basketball program. Community members are asked to pledge money for every three-point basket the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels make during the upcoming season.
“This LB3 program is something that will keep Lindsay’s memory alive,” said Lindsay’s father, Mike, who is active in the development of the memorial along with his wife, Jan and their son Andrew. “As parents, that is probably your biggest fear after losing a child. You don’t want them to be forgotten. With the memorial and the LB3 Program, not only will Lindsay’s memory live on, but our hope is to put programs in motion, with the support from the community, that will raise awareness and help to save lives, that’s our main goal.”
UNLV head basketball coach Lon Kruger said Lindsay’s death was felt throughout the athletic department.
“The Rebel Girls, the cheerleaders, the band members, they all put as much in to what they do as the players do,” Kruger said. “They are an important part of our family and Lindsay’s death was a blow to the family. We’re honored to be associated with the LB3 Program that will help to keep Lindsay’s memory alive as well as do positive things in the community.”
Pledges for the LB3 Program might include 10 cents per three-pointer or 25 cents per three-pointer. During the 2008-09 season, UNLV made 264 threes, meaning a 10 cent per shot pledge would equal a $26.40 overall donation while a 25 cent per shot pledge would equal a $66 donation. Flat donations will also be accepted.
“Not only will we be raising funds, but the thing that is so unique about this concept is that every time UNLV makes a three-pointer, someone somewhere is going to be thinking about Lindsay,” Mike said. “That means the world to us and we are so grateful for those who helped us make this a reality.”
Those involved in developing the program include the UNLV Rebel Girls dance team, RADD (Rebels Against Drunk Driving), local businesses, Lindsay’s childhood friends and many family members and friends of the Bennett family.
The Lindsay Bennett Memorial will use funds generated through the LB3 program to support and aid RADD (Rebels Against Drunk Drivers), the Follow Your Bliss scholarship fund as well as a UNLV endowment fund.
For information on how to make a pledge to the LB3 Program, visit www.goLB3.com.
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