The initiative was the brainchild of Ohio native and former University of Michigan tight end, Jake Butt. With a desire to use the competitive energy around “The Game” for good, Butt reached out to his business colleague, mentor, and U of M alumni, Marc Jacobson – just two short weeks before the competition. Together, Jake and Marc quickly put the idea into action by identifying local non-profits on each side of “The Game” to benefit from their efforts, and the campaign began.To garner support for Ohio State, Butt teamed up with his close friend, colleague, and former Ohio State University linebacker, Joshua Perry. Together, the two joined forces to unite their fan bases for good, and support families in need during the holiday season.

In just under 10 days this small campaign raised nearly $100,000 – with every dollar benefiting families in their respective communities through partnerships with Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Ohio and Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan.

Now in its second year, Game Gives Back is expanding its reach by adding new competitions to the scoreboard including the upcoming Georgia vs. Florida football game.

Donations made through the Georgia vs. Florida rivalry will support the State Alliances of the Boys & Girls Clubs in Georgia and Florida as they assist organizations around the state to enable young people to reach their full potential. And, remaining true to its origin, Game Gives Back will also once again raise funds around its namesake rivalry, Ohio State vs. Michigan, supporting families in those communities for the second year in a row. Donations made in support of Ohio State will benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Ohio, while support for the University of Michigan will benefit C. S. Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor.