USA Goalie Tim Howard Stands Up for Kids - Wants to Give Thousands Their Own Voice

Online, May 25, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Soccer superstar Tim Howard wants kids to be able to speak up for themselves in the face of bullying and stigma. That's why he's representing the NJ Center for Tourette Syndrome in the Pepsi Refresh Project at USSoccer.com. If he gets the most votes, the Center will win $50,000 to establish a Youth Advocacy Academy.

"As many as 1 in 100 kids have Tourette syndrome - most of them undiagnosed, misdiagnosed and misunderstood," says Howard, who also has Tourette Syndrome. "With the Pepsi Refresh Project grant we can make a difference and help provide much needed resources for these children and their families." Kids with Tourette Syndrome have to deal with the stigma attached to this disorder, which often leads to isolation and bullying. The NJCTS Advocacy Academy will help all kids, regardless of their limitations, stand up and speak up for themselves.

"We're delighted that Tim is standing up for us in the Pepsi Refresh Project," said NJCTS Executive Director Faith Rice, "He's a great role model for all of us to see that you can achieve great things despite having challenges"

Voting continues now through June 12th. Supporters can log on to ussoccer.com/pepsirefresh and vote as many as 10 times a day per computer. Each vote brings Tim one step closer to making this dream a reality.

To vote, visit ussoccer.com/pepsirefresh now through June 12th.