Neil Friedman Gets Yankees Honor

Playthings Staff -- Gifts and Dec, 4/13/2012 3:59:11 PM

Neil Friedman gets Yankees honor.NEW YORK — Toy industry legend, Neil Friedman, received the inaugural New York Yankees Foundation Champion Award for his continued support of the organization.

The ceremony took place at the 2012 New York Yankees Homecoming Dinner in New York. Friedman, who has 40-plus years in the toy industry, including his role as president of Fisher-Price, Mattel Brands and most recently served as president of Toys "R" Us, was honored for his philanthropic efforts with the Yankee's foundation. The foundation helps children in New York through the following organizations: the Urban League, Boys Club, Boy Scouts, Big Brothers, Catholic Youth Organizations, Police Athletic League, Special Olympics, Children's Health Fund, the YMCA and other programs that support the Yankees Healthy Home Plate Program, which focuses on healthy eating and living for kids ages 12 to 15.

Through the foundation, Friedman has helped implement athletic, recreational and educational programs for children throughout the city, including his work with the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, which provides college and educational support to children of wounded or fallen members of military.

"I believe that it's very important to support organizations that share my philanthropic goals and I have found that with the New York Yankees Foundation," said Friedman in a statement. "As a lifelong New York Yankees fan, I am thrilled to work with this organization as they make a tremendous contribution to the children in our community."