ASR Wristband Sales to Help Fund SurfAid's Tsunami Relief Effort

The entire action sports industry is mobilizing a massive fundraiser for the tsunami victims as they converge at ASR in San Diego, January 14-16th. Giving back through SurfAid International, a non-profit organization that is already established with doctors and boats in the region and currently engaging in relief efforts, the entire campaign is expected to raise significant funds for the cause.

ASR, in conjunction with Board Retailer Association (BRA), Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA), International Association of Skateboard Companies (IASC) and SurfAid International, will raise funds by selling black tsunami relief wristbands stating "Band Together" at $5 each. The bands will be available at ASR to all retailers, manufacturers and industry affiliates in the surf, skate, swim, and snow markets throughout the San Diego Convention Center. With over 20,000 industry professionals attending the 3-day show, organizers expect the action sports community to rise to the occasion supporting SurfAid International's current efforts in Southeast Asia. One hundred percent of the funds will be utilized to support SurfAid's efforts.

In addition, ASR and Outdoor Retailer parent company, VNU, contributed 200,000 euros to Cooperating Relief Organizations, an international organization to coordinate relief efforts among such groups as the International Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders, Oxfam, and UNICEF, among others. Additionally, VNU is establishing a fund to provide long-term aid to the victims by matching contributions from its staff of 35,000 employees worldwide.