Raise Our Flag:

When it comes to supporting the unwavering dedication of U.S. Olympic and Paralympic athletes, the American public truly is the Team Behind the Team. This year, through a new campaign called Raise Our Flag, we are creating a symbol of that public support – and the unity that powers it. Starting April 18, all Americans will have the opportunity to back Team USA, and be a part of history, by purchasing a stitch in the flag that American athletes will carry in the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Supporting Team USA:

Unlike many of the national teams that will compete in the Olympic Games this summer, Team USA relies on public donations – donations that help to cover the costs of preparing our greatest athletes for competition. From training facilities, coaching and equipment, to travel and medical needs, the costs of high performance are significant. This is never truer than at this very moment, as we prepare to send more than 600 American athletes to London to complete on the biggest stage in sports.

How to Buy a Stitch:

1. Visit www.RaiseOurFlag.TeamUSA.org starting April 18, 2012.
2. The process of buying a stich is easy. Each stitch costs $12 and after selecting the number of stitches for purchase, donors will enter their billing and contact information.
3. For their support, donors receive a personal number corresponding to the purchased stitch and a place on the site’s donor wall.
4. Donors can dedicate the stitch to a loved one for display on the wall and also share their support of Team USA with their friends and family on Facebook and Twitter.

The Opening Ceremony Flag:

A running total of stitches donated and a virtual flag on the program website will reflect progress through the donation period. The physical flag will then be created by the professional seamstresses at Annin Flagmakers of Roseland, N.J.,  the same company that restored the 9/11 flag carried by Team USA in the Opening Ceremony of the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games, before the team leaves for London.