USC Athletics has teamed up with the Los Angeles Dodgers to support ThinkCure, the recently launched nonprofit organization that raises funds for cancer research at City of Hope and Childrens Hospital Los Angeles.

To help raise awareness of ThinkCure, USC has committed to a series of radio, Internet and video-board messages during the upcoming 2007-08 athletic season.

The Dodgers have conducted several special events and fundraising programs to support ThinkCure, the official charity of the organization. ThinkCure ads and signage now appear regularly at Dodger Stadium, the THINKBLUE sign above the stadium was changed to THINKCURE to celebrate the charity’s launch, and the Dodgers have held several special pregame events.

Support from USC Athletics will deliver the ThinkCure message to an even wider audience. “We could not be any happier about another of Los Angeles’ great civic assets, the University of Southern California’s athletic department, joining the ThinkCure team and assisting ThinkCure in the fight against cancer. Athletic Director Mike Garrett and his entire team of coaches and staff have already proven to be outstanding partners,” said Frank McCourt, Dodgers owner and chair.

City of Hope’s Stephen J. Forman, M.D., board member of ThinkCure and a graduate of USC’s medical school, is enthusiastic about the partnership.

“We are appreciative of USC’s support,” said Forman, the Francis and Kathleen McNamara Distinguished Chair in Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation.

“Sports venues provide outstanding opportunities for visibility because of the multitudes who attend games at the stadiums and the millions more who view games on television. We know that USC’s commitment to support ThinkCure will result in much greater awareness of our work.”