Jaffarian Automotive Group has renewed its commitment to Haverhill athletics by committing to a two-year, $10,000 sponsorship at the Haverhill Stadium.
Gary Jaffarian, president of Jaffarian Toyota Scion Volvo, met recently with Haverhill Athletic Director Garin Veris to confirm Jaffarian's continued support of the city and its athletic program.
"My family has been proud of our involvement with Haverhill athletics for many generations, and now my son, Gavin, the fourth generation, will continue this tradition," Jaffarian said. "It is more important than ever, in these challenging economic times, that our young men and women can participate in activities that give them structure as well as the opportunity to develop into physically fit and healthy adults."
Jaffarian has been an active participant in fundraising efforts for the city's athletics programs, most recently contributing auction items to the Haverhill Athletics Golf Tournament in May.
Veris, a former member of the New England Patriots, will mark the one-year anniversary of his position as athletic director this summer. One of Veris' key responsibilities is raising money for Haverhill athletics.
Haverhill High began sports user fees in 2002 and must raise money to help student-athletes pay the fees.
In 2008, donations from businesses, individuals, organizations and booster club fundraisers brought in $30,000, which helped pay the fees for many players who otherwise would not have been able to play and reduced fees for many other athletes.
"With our high sports user fees, one of the main things I want to do is bring in the community to help support our program," Veris said. "Once people see our kids performing at a high level on the field and in the classroom, I think it will show the community that it is a program they will want to be involved in and support, and that it is something they can be proud of."
Jaffarian Automotive Group, 600 River St., includes Volvo, Toyota and Scion brands and is the oldest Toyota dealership in New England.
